LAKE HELEN – Chief Allan Odawa Jr. said Thursday the idea behind the future Lake Helen Wellbeing and Cultural Centre is “bringing culture back to our people” and he’s happy the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation is helping to make it happen.
Odawa was speaking minutes after Northern Development Minister Greg Rickford announced the NOHFC is ponying up $1.88 million for the facility, which will include an accessible gymnasium, community kitchen and space for training and business incubator activity.
“The NOHFC investments we are recognizing today underscore our government's commitment to reconciliation and meaningful partnership with northern and First Nations communities,” Rickford said in a news conference at the Chalet Lodge.
“By supporting these crucial projects – from cultural centres to essential infrastructure – we are leveraging every tool at our disposal to ensure reconciliation is not just a goal but a reality for First Nations families and community members.”
In all, Rickford announced more than $2.6 million in NOHFC funding for community development projects in the region.
The next largest funding piece was $500,000 for Pays Plat (Pawgwasheeng) First Nation to build an extension on its community centre for enhanced accessibility and energy efficiency.
“Enhancing the hall’s accessibility and expanding its facilities will greatly improve the community’s ability to host cultural, wellness and sporting events at the site,” said Pays Plat Chief David Mushquash.
There was also $200,000 announced for Biinjitiwaabik Zaaging Anishinaabek (Rocky Bay First Nation) towards the repair of a breakwall to protect the docks and boats in its harbour and marina.
The funding is important as the First Nation works to “revitalize our whole marina area,” said Michael Esquega, its economic development officer.
Biinjitiwaabik Zaaging Chief Gladys Thompson said the breakwall project “is the beginning and first phase of a larger plan to revitalize our fisheries and enable our community members to develop Indigenous experiences for the tourism industry.”
A grant of $35,360 will allow the community of East Gorham to install backup power generator systems in two fire halls so that emergency vehicles can respond during power outages.
East Gorham local services board treasurer Suanne Howes said in an NOHFC news release that the backup generators will also “allow the buildings to function as community emergency shelters during times of crisis.”
