Cambridge receives Jays Care Foundation Field of Dreams grant funding for accessibility upgrades at the Kin 1 Baseball Diamond

The City of Cambridge is excited to announce it will receive $171,659 as part of the Jays Care Foundation’s 2026 Field of Dreams grant program. The funding will support accessibility upgrades at the Kin 1 Baseball Diamond, making the field fully accessible and inclusive for all users. 

“We are grateful to the Jays Care Foundation for their support for this important work,” said Mayor Jan Liggett. “These improvements will enhance the experience for athletes of all abilities and help ensure Cambridge offers facilities that are welcoming and accessible for everyone in our community. Grants like this allow us to have a higher level of programs. Thanks Jays Care!” 

The Kin 1 Baseball Diamond is home to many local baseball and softball groups, including the Waterloo Region Challenger Baseball Buddy League, an adaptive baseball program that provides everyone aged five and up the opportunity to play baseball in a safe, supportive and friendly environment.  

More than 150 athletes and family members gathered for a watch party on Sunday to cheer on the Blue Jays. The crowd was already excited, but the funding news made the moment even more memorable. 

“The Kin 1 Baseball Diamond will be one of a kind in Cambridge and across the Region,” said City Manager Rob Axiak. “We are proud to support adaptive baseball programs and broaden access to recreation, helping more people get involved in community sport.” 

The Field of Dreams funding will be used to support accessibility upgrades already in progress, including artificial turf on the infield, covered dugouts, upgraded seating and paved pathways to improve access to the Baseball Diamond. 

In addition to the Field of Dreams funding, the City has also secured financial support for the Kin 1 Baseball Diamond Accessibility Improvements project from several other sources, including a $500,000 contribution from the Lyle S. Hallman Foundation, a $100,000 sponsorship from Toyota and $3,325 raised through the City’s Play it Forward campaign. 

“The support from the Jays Foundation and our community donors speaks to the passion for sport in Cambridge and our collective commitment to making it more accessible for all,” said Axiak. 

Community members and businesses are encouraged to join the roster of sponsors and donors by making a contribution to the project. Details and donation information are available at cambridge.ca/playitforward.  

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