The Judith and Norman Alix Foundation has awarded more than $715,000 in grants to support 15 capital projects across Lambton County, funding community infrastructure, cultural initiatives, accessibility improvements, and local recreation projects.
One of the largest community projects receiving support is a downtown park development in Forest. The initiative secured a $75,000 grant to help build an outdoor stage in a new public parkette being developed on former vacant lots acquired by the municipality after a fire several years ago.
Local officials say the stage will complete the nearly C$700,000 revitalization project, which already includes restored brickwork, walkways, public plazas, electrical installations, outdoor furnishings, and historical displays celebrating the town’s heritage. Construction on the stage is expected to begin later this year following community consultations and final design work.
The foundation, established in honour of late philanthropists Judith Alix and Norman Alix, has now contributed more than C$9.3 million toward community initiatives across the region over the past three decades.
This year’s funding round attracted a record number of applications, reflecting growing community interest in local development and public infrastructure projects. According to foundation representatives, the grants are intended to improve quality of life, support families, and strengthen local communities throughout the county.
Additional funded initiatives include park upgrades, accessibility renovations, rescue communications equipment, library expansion projects, transportation vehicles for community organizations, sports team support, and improvements for local cultural and social service groups.
Among the larger grants awarded were C$128,000 for renovations by St. Vincent de Paul, C$100,000 for a Bright’s Grove library and art gallery expansion, and C$94,000 for renovations and a new vehicle for BGC.
Community leaders say the funding will help create public spaces, improve local services, and support long-term social and economic development across Lambton County.
