The Municipality of Port Hope has been awarded $158,200 through the Jays Care Foundation’s 2026 Field of Dreams program, funding that will be used to revitalize the Welcome Park baseball diamond.
The announcement was made Sunday during a community Blue Jays watch party at the Jack Burger Sports Complex, where local baseball players, families, and supporters gathered to watch Port Hope recognized as one of this year’s grant recipients.
The funding, made possible through Jays Care Foundation and TD, will support a series of upgrades designed to improve accessibility and enhance the experience for players, spectators, and visiting teams.
Planned improvements include a refurbished infield featuring an accessible turf surface, new accessible dugouts, refreshed bleacher seating, and new fencing.
Mayor Olena Hankivsky said the investment will help create a more inclusive space where athletes of all ages and abilities can participate in the sport.
The municipality credited Port Hope Challenger Baseball for championing the project and helping advance the application. Officials say the Northumberland Baseball Association also provided support throughout the process.
The Field of Dreams program supports communities across Canada by improving baseball infrastructure and increasing access to sport, particularly for children and youth facing barriers to participation.
Municipal officials say the Welcome Park upgrades will strengthen local recreation opportunities while helping attract teams and tournaments to the area.
Construction is scheduled to begin later this year, with the refurbished diamond expected to reopen in time for the 2027 baseball season.
The announcement was celebrated by members of Port Hope’s baseball community, who gathered to watch the Blue Jays game and learn the municipality had secured one of the largest community sports grants in recent years.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
