Ontario Trillium Foundation Comes to the Rescue
Chabad Lubavitch Cabana & Pool, Restoration Completed
Nestled in southwest corner of our three acre site is a red brick cabana obstructing the view of a large outdoor pool. A spacious deck flanks the 30’ x 60’ pool and tall cedars form a lush exterior perimeter that helps create a sense of calm and an oasis of tranquility. The well-appointed complex was constructed 1988 and made possible by a generous contribution from the Solomon family, along with a considerable grant from Wintario, the first lottery game offered by the Ontario Lottery Corporation.
The facility constructed some 38 years ago was in dire need of a “facelift.” Indeed, after serving the community at large and the hundreds of youngsters that attended the Lubavitch Day year after year, the filtration system had deteriorated considerably and was “out of service” far too often. So too, the cabana was due for upgrades and a retrofit. But, the cost of construction had escalated considerably in the last few years, leaving this projected out of reach.
Coming to the rescue was the Ontario Trillium Foundation. After doing a careful and meticulous analysis of the repairs and upgrades needed, a comprehensive proposal for funding was presented to OTF. Thank G‑d the application along with an overview of our finances, merited a positive response. The generous grant we received allowed us to resurface the pool, install new feed lines and provide the equipment needed to maintain the facility at an optimal level.
Now, once again, Chabad Lubavitch will have the facility available to the community at large during evenings and weekends. The pool provides some 750 campers a daily opportunity to swim, frolic, or just cool off. The newly enlarged cabana will allow for a quick and efficient “turn around” time in order to get more youngsters in and out of the pool.
“It gives us much satisfaction to be able to provide to pool for the community at large,” said Rabbi Zalman Grossbaum. The Chabad Lubavitch Organization was amongst the very first trail blazers that established a presence in Thornhill, some 45 years ago; when the very first sub divisions “north of Steeles’ were still on the “drawing board.” For young families having just made their first home purchase in the emerging town, Chabad Lubavitch was a lifesaver offering a plethora of social services and recreational activities, especially those geared to children and young adults.
The pool and cabana will continue to provide aquatic activities for some 750 youngsters attending Lubavitch Day Camp. Counsellors and staff are offered a swim after camp dismissal. Being cognizant that many young families are spending the summer in town, Chabad Lubavitch takes much pleasure to have the pool available to the community at large as well. Evenings, weekends and especially the extended holiday weekends we will provide recreational swimming and poolside lounging for all.
As we begin our summer programs for 2026, we are pleased to acknowledge the generosity and assistance we received from the Ontario Trillium Foundation. Indeed, a project of this nature is perfectly aligned with the objectives of the OTF Capital Grant stream. This vital restoration will enhance the recreational opportunities for the community at large. It was best expressed by Rabbi Zalman Grossbaum, when he declared, “Fitness is FUNdamental.” Needless to say, Chabad Lubavitch remains committed to take all steps necessary to keep the facility up to standards to ensure safety and functionality. Every effort is made to maintain (and repair) the pool, deck, filtration system, and auxiliary components needed for the safe and hygienic recreational experience.
As with all programs under our administration, there is a nominal fee. For information please call the Chabad Lubavitch office, 905.731.7000.