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Reena is thrilled to announce it has received a $200,000 Capital Grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) to renovate and enhance the Toby & Henry Battle Developmental Centre in Thornhill. This vital investment will significantly improve accessibility, safety, and programming capacity for individuals with developmental disabilities.
The project will modernize ten aging program rooms and fully revitalize the Snoezelen Room—a therapeutic multi-sensory environment critical for individuals with sensory processing challenges. These improvements include new flooring, updated millwork and storage, ceiling and lighting enhancements, and the installation of specialized sensory tools such as bubble tubes, fiber optic lighting, and tactile panels.
“For over 27 years, the Battle Centre has been a cornerstone of support for our community. This investment will allow us to double our daily program capacity from 40 to 80 individuals, and reach over 1,200 people annually,” said Bryan Keshen, CEO of Reena. “We are deeply grateful to the Ontario Trillium Foundation for supporting a more inclusive and accessible space where everyone can thrive.”
In addition to the OTF grant, Reena will contribute $87,068.30 in funding and in-kind support to complete the renovations. This includes $60,000 for painting and remaining construction work, and $42,968.30 toward outfitting the Snoezelen Room.
The project addresses the urgent need for expanded developmental services in York Region, where thousands of individuals remain on waiting lists. Renovations will ensure the facility remains a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment well into the future.