Simcoe North MPP Jill Dunlop visited Information Orillia on Friday to celebrate an Ontario Trillium Foundation grant that was given to the not-for-profit organization last year.
Information Orillia received $75,100 in April 2022. The money was used to hire an operations administrator and a part-time client service representative.
"Those funds were essential," says operations administrator Ann Kleiser. "We wouldn't have been able to keep the doors open without those funds."
Information Orillia's slogan is it's 'a place to go when you don't know where to go.'
"It's the starting point for a lot of people who are facing barriers to accessing information," Kleiser said. "Information is costly, and a lot of people don't have computers."
Information Orillia works to connect people to services based on their needs. They help people fill out forms for government assistance programs, file taxes, and find housing, among other services. The organization also offers people a safe place for people to talk about their issues.
"A lot of the people we see are living in poverty," Kleiser said. "It can be isolating, which is why it's important that they have a place where they can come and have a conversation with somebody."
Every month, about 450 people go to Information Orillia seeking help with various issues. The organization works to help people at no cost.
"Without Information Orillia, we would have around 3,500 individuals a year who may not be getting service otherwise," Kleiser said. "Getting people connected is so important to us."
Information Orillia has about eight volunteers — 15 during tax season. Kleiser says the organization would like to have 10 regular volunteers and 10 more for tax season.
"It's a great experience and a nice office to volunteer at," she said. "Any day that you come in, you are never doing the same thing twice."
Those who would like to volunteer with Information Orillia can stop by the office, which is located in the Orillia Public Library, or call 705-326-7743.
Dunlop says Information Orillia is an invaluable service for the community.
"They do great work with connecting folks with local supports in the area," she said. "They are kind of our one-stop shop for all of our community resources."
She notes Information Orillia is best known for its tax services.
"I'm impressed to hear they did 1,500 last year," she said. "I think it's important that folks who are professionals in that area see that this is a great opportunity to volunteer and give back to the community."
Information Orillia solely operates on provincial and municipal grants, as well as public donations. Donations can be made here.