OFT Grant for QSC
OTF Grant from the Ontario Government Supports the Queen Street Commons Café
On Friday June 5, 2026 Aislinn Clancy, Kitchener Centre MPP joined us to announce and celebrate both a Seed Grant ($73,600) and a Grow Grant ($600,000 over 3 years) from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Fund, as we relaunch the Queen Street Commons Café as a vital placemaking model for community connections, diversity, inclusion, and democratic dialogue.
"I am so happy to see these grants awarded to The Working Centre to support and expand their employment services,” said Aislinn Clancy, MPP for Kitchener Centre. “As a former social worker, I've seen firsthand the difference supportive programming and community spaces can make for individuals going through challenging times. Their dedication to strengthening our community is truly inspiring, and I am proud to support the important work they do every day."
You may have already started to notice the number of events and gatherings happening at the Queen Street Commons Café and Fresh Ground event space. The Queen Street Commons Café has a long history of being an affordable and inclusive meeting place, where people from all walks-of-life gather in common. At a time when public spaces are diminishing, and our feelings of isolation and loneliness are growing, the Commons is needed more than ever. Rooted in our tradition of hosting, inviting people from all elements of life into the space to find new friendships, create micro-communities, and partnerships.
Fresh Ground, sister café to the Queen Street Commons, also offers space for community gatherings and events. Whether you are an organization, band, company, or group of friends, we offer inspiring spaces and keep our rates accessible. Catering is available.
Joe Mancini from The Working Centre states, “The Queen Street Commons is a place to help strengthen community and a way of living that sustains our social fabric. We are grateful for OTF’s support in helping to strengthen this dynamic community space.”
The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Ontario government with a mission to build healthy and vibrant communities across the province. In 2025-26, OTF invested nearly $107M into 746 community projects. Projects aim to enhance economic well-being, foster more active lifestyles, support child and youth development, provide spaces for people to come together and connect, and create a more sustainable environment. Visit otf.ca to learn more.