Summer is always a busy and exciting season in Orléans
As we move into November, I want to share a few important federal updates supporting families, strengthening our economy and honouring those who have served our country.
Our government is taking action to help Canadians manage the cost of everyday necessities. The new Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit is helping more than 12 million Canadians and over 27,000 residents in Orléans by putting more money back in their pockets. Eligible individuals and families are receiving a 25% increase this year to the value of the former GST Credit, with this increased support continuing for five years. This assistance will help households manage their budgets.
There is good news for homeowners considering a new heating system. The National Heat Pump Rebate is part of our government’s plan to support one million home energy retrofits. Eligible households may receive $2,000, while eligible low- to median-income households may qualify for up to $10,000. The rebate’s retroactivity period begins Nov. 1, 2026.
Households installing an eligible heat pump on or after that date and meeting the program’s criteria will be able to apply when the program launches in early 2027. Remember to keep your receipts and watch for further details about eligibility and applications.
On Nov. 5, our government will table Budget 2026, building on the generational investments in Budget 2025 to grow our economy, protect our communities and build a more unified Canada. It will also build on the Productivity Mega Deduction announced at the Investment Summit, helping Canadian businesses invest, improve productivity, compete internationally and create good jobs at home. As we enter Veterans’ Week, from Nov. 5 to Nov. 11, we have an important opportunity to honour the courage and sacrifices of those who served.
Indigenous Veterans Day on Nov. 8 and Remem-brance Day on Nov. 11 remind us of our responsibility to remember.
Our local Royal Canadian Legion Branch 632 is seeking volunteers for its annual Poppy Campaign ending on Nov. 10. I encourage residents to sign up at rcl632.ca and help keep this meaningful tradition alive. Don’t forget to proudly wear your Poppy.
Finally, I join our community in expressing my deepest condolences to the families and friends of the Canadian Armed Forces members who lost their lives in the tragic fire at CFB Wainwright, Alberta, on Oct. 17. My heartfelt wishes for strength and recovery go to those injured and all those affected by this devastating tragedy. Let us never forget their courage, dedication and service. We will remember.
ANNUAL REMEMBRANCE DAY CEREMONY staring at 11 a.m. at the Orléans Cenotaph beside the Orléans Legion Branch 632, 800 Taylor Creek Dr. Members of the public are encouraged to arrive no later than 10;30 a.m. Sandwiches and desserts will be served inside the Legion following the ceremony.
OPEN MIC NIGHT at the Stray dog Brewing Company, 150 Lacolle Way in the taylor Creek Business Park. Catch amazing local artists, no cover! Every Thursday starting at 8pm and sign up starts at 7pm..
TRIVIA NIGHT from 7:30 p.m. every Monday night at the Royal Oak Pub Orléans. Free to play. Prizes for the winning team! The Royal Oak Pub is located at 1981 St. Joseph Blvd. near Jeanne d’Arc. For more info visit 
SDBC TAPROOM SERIES presents a classic singalong with Erin Adair from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. NO COVER. The Stray Dog Brewing Company is located at 501 Lacolle Way in the Taylor Creek Business Park.
CRAFT AND BAKE SALE from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. presented by the Hobbs Seniors Club at the Roy Hobbs Community Centre, 109 Larch Cres. off Champlain Street.
