Naotkamegwanning (Whitefish Bay) First Nation building Head Start facility with NOHFC support
Expanded Preschool Program Will Promote Ojibway Culture - Province Helps First Nation Build New Early Childhood Development Centre
October 07, 2008
More preschoolers at a Northwestern Ontario First Nation will be able to attend a daycare program that promotes Ojibway culture and language thanks to an investment by the province.
The Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) is providing $344,000 to Naotkamegwanning (Whitefish Bay) First Nation to build an Aboriginal Head Start Early Childhood Development Centre. The new facility will have room for up to 46 preschoolers in full-day sessions, compared to 20 currently enrolled for half-days in a smaller building. The new centre will be finished in early 2009, and is expected to create up to three full-time jobs.
QUOTES
- “Our government wants academic success for all Ontario children,” said Northern Development and Mines Minister Michael Gravelle, who also chairs the NOHFC. “I am delighted that the NOHFC is helping Naotkamegwanning First Nation prepare its youngsters for a positive school experience through a program that teaches traditional knowledge and attitudes.”
- “Education is a major key to achieving success,” said Minister of Aboriginal Affairs Brad Duguid. “Helping children in First Nation communities get a head start by making culturally sensitive education accessible builds on this government’s commitment to improving quality of life for First Nations children and youth.”
QUICK FACTS
- Naotkamegwanning First Nation is located on Lake of the Woods approximately 45 kilometres southeast of Kenora.
- In 2007-2008 the Ontario government contributed $3.7 million for feasibility studies, construction, and renovation of community centres and small business centres through the Aboriginal Community Capital Grants Program.
- The Canadian government is a partner in Naotkamegwanning First Nation’s early childhood development centre through the Aboriginal Head Start On Reserve initiative.
LEARN MORE
- Find out if your project is eligible for the NOHFC’s Infrastructure and Community Development Program
- Read about Ontario’s Aboriginal Education Strategy aimed at helping more First Nations, Métis and Inuit students achieve their full potential
Anne-Marie Flanagan, Minister’s Office, 416-327-0655
Michel Lavoie, Communications Branch, 705-564-7125