Tibetan Canadian Cultural Center receives over $1 million in federal funding

By Tenzin Nyidon 

DHARAMSHALA, Feb. 21: The Tibetan community at the Tibetan Canadian Cultural Center (TCCC) in Toronto, Canada, marked the celebration of Tibetan New Year on February 17 with joy, as they received news of federal funding exceeding $1 million for green infrastructure initiatives. The announcement was delivered by the  Members of Parliament, Mr. James Melony, Mr. Arif Virani and Mr. Yvan Baker, who joined in the celebration alongside the Tibetan community at TCCC. 

Through the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings (GICB) program, the federal government is allocating $1,009,648 towards this initiative, complemented by a $405,000 contribution from the Tibetan Canadian Cultural Centre. These funds will facilitate renovations at the center, aimed at expanding program space and enhancing the center’s sustainability efforts.

The Tibetan Canadian Cultural Centre plays a pivotal role in enriching the lives of thousands of visitors annually, spanning different age groups including youth and seniors. It serves as a platform for cultural exchange, nurturing understanding, and fostering appreciation of Tibetan heritage among Canadians from diverse backgrounds. The upcoming project will facilitate the transformation of the community hall within the center, including seven additional rooms to host programs and activities. These encompass after-school programs, language, dance, and music classes, as well as workshops focused on youth leadership development. Furthermore, it will introduce new storage spaces and implement energy-efficient enhancements throughout the building. Initiatives include the adoption of energy-saving LED lighting systems and the installation of automated faucets and flush systems in the washroom, aiming to reduce energy consumption and minimise the center’s environmental footprint.

James Maloney, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Member of Parliament for Etobicoke, Lakeshore, speaking on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities said, “As a multicultural society, Canada is made strong through the diverse peoples that call it home. Fostering an inclusive society is supported by the spaces we inhabit – where we can come together to learn, share and appreciate the ideas, backgrounds and ways of life that make us unique. By working with the Tibetan Canadian Cultural Centre, the federal government is helping to sustain a stronger community and environment.”

Arif Virani, Minister of Justice, Attorney General of Canada, and Member of Parliament for Parkdale- High Park, emphasised, “Investing in upgrades to the Tibetan Canadian Cultural Centre will yield benefits beyond the building. It will support progress for the community at large by creating more space for people of all ages to come together to advance and promote Tibetan language and culture. I can think of no better time to celebrate the beginning of this exciting project than during Losar. Losar Tashi Delek!”

Sonam Lankar, President of the TCCC said, “Today’s federal funding announcement is pivotal for the Tibetan Canadian Cultural Centre as it directly enhances our ability to meet a variety of unique and diverse community needs. This infrastructure investment supports our longstanding commitment to improve community spaces so they continue to be accessible, versatile and energy-efficient, As a result, we will increase participation in the many important programs offered to our community members. Together, we’re creating a future that’s more sustainable, vibrant, and inclusive for all.”