A significant investment from the federal government is paving the way for an exciting new community hub in Farnham, promising to enhance the quality of life for its residents. With over $2.3 million allocated, this initiative will establish a contemporary and accessible community center where locals can access vital services and engage fully in the vibrant social life of their area.
Farnham, Quebec, December 17, 2025 — This much-anticipated project was unveiled by Louis Villeneuve, the Member of Parliament for Brome—Missisquoi, alongside Ugo Tanguay, the Chairman of the Board for the Centre d’action bénévole de Farnham.
The funding announced today will facilitate extensive renovations of the Centre d’Arts de Farnham, transforming it into a state-of-the-art community center that will host activities for the Centre d’action bénévole de Farnham. The renovation project is designed to revamp this previously underused building, which currently suffers from energy inefficiency. The approach taken respects ecological principles, focusing on revitalizing existing structures instead of contributing to urban sprawl. The goal is to create a welcoming meeting space and service center that caters to all citizens. These upgrades will not only enhance the building’s energy efficiency but also modernize it to better meet the needs of Farnham's community members.
Historically, this building has served as a cultural cornerstone for Farnham; however, its outdated condition restricted its functionality. The planned transformation aims to breathe new life into the structure, making it a versatile, sustainable, and accessible venue that encourages social interaction, community engagement, and intergenerational activities. It will be situated in a central location that fosters unity and collaboration among residents.
Louis Villeneuve emphasized the importance of this investment, stating, "In Farnham, the Centre d’action bénévole makes a real difference in people's lives every day. Today's investment is much more than just renovations: it is a powerful gesture of support for our seniors, families, volunteers, and the entire social fabric of the community. By giving new life to a building that is part of local history, we are creating a modern, inclusive, and sustainable space where citizens can gather and receive essential services. These are exactly the kinds of projects that make our communities more humane, more supportive, and stronger."
Echoing this sentiment, Ugo Tanguay remarked, "We're not building a castle, but a place where people will be well served. The old building had run its course. Now, it will finally get back to work for real."
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The total investment for this project amounts to $2,311,021 from the federal government, made possible through the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings (GICB) program, with the Centre d’action bénévole de Farnham contributing approximately $750,000.
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The GICB program was established as part of Canada’s Strengthened Climate Plan: A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy. It aligns with the first pillar of this plan, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance energy efficiency, and bolster resilience against climate change.
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Launched in 2021, this program initiated an investment of $1.5 billion spread over five years to support green and accessible renovations, repairs, upgrades, and new constructions.
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Budget 2024 introduced an additional $500 million to fund more projects through the GICB until 2029.
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Notably, at least 10% of the program's funding is earmarked for projects that benefit First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities, including Indigenous populations residing in urban areas.
For further information, please reach out to:
Renée LeBlanc Proctor
Senior Communications Advisor and Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities
Renee.Proctor@infc.gc.ca
Jennyfer Jacques
Director General
Centre d’action bénévole de Farnham
450-293-3265 ext. 200
direction@cabfarnham.com
