The Madawaska Valley Army, Navy & Air Force (ANAF) Unit 378 in Maynooth has received a $76,400 grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation.
Hastings-Lennox & Addington MPP Ric Bresee was at the unit this weekend to see how the funds have been used to update and improve facilities.
“It’s a place that has been at the heart of the Madawaska Valley for 50 years…Since it first opened its doors back in 1972 and became incorporated in ‘82, it’s been a steady, welcoming presence in this community,” Bresee said during remarks.
Unit 378 president Stuart McDonald said their kitchen is used to prepare food for CARE North Hastings Meals on Wheels, and their hall is often used for events such as weddings and community dinners.
Grant money was used for improvements to the kitchen including a new stove and fryers.
“I really believe that our impact in the community is going to be massive now,” McDonald said.
He said the new kitchen updates will make preparing food much more efficient and help them serve more people.
Other facility improvements include replacing the stairs and accessibility ramp at the front entrance, to ensure safe access for all.
McDonald said the local ANAF unit is run entirely by volunteers, and thanked them for helping bring the improvements to life.
