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Ontario press release

New Community Centre For First Nation - McGuinty Government Supports New Facility In Mishkeegogamang

July 9, 2009

Residents of Mishkeegogamang First Nation will soon be able to hold community and regional gatherings, sporting events and other social events at a new community centre.

The new facility includes a number of programs and services to promote healthy lifestyles, including a gymnasium, fitness room, locker rooms, washrooms, office and meeting space as well as a kitchen. The community centre will promote a healthier community by providing a venue for young and old to take part in physical activities and fitness programs. The facility will also serve as a local and regional gathering place, supporting the vibrant community and generating new economic activity from events held there.

Mishkeegogamang is an Ojibway community located on the shores of Lake St. Joseph in Northwestern Ontario.

"Ontario understands that the well being of remote First Nation communities relies on infrastructure. Investments such as these improve quality of life and community pride by providing a much needed venue for recreational and social venues."
– Michael Gravelle, Minister of Northern Development, Mines and Forestry, and Chair of the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC).

QUICK FACTS

> The NOHFC has approved funding for $1 million for the project through its Infrastructure and Community Development Program
> The NOHFC has played a pivotal role in First Nation infrastructure and development in the past. Key Infrastructure and Community Development Program projects have included the expansion and construction of community centres in Muskrat Dam, Neskantaga and Bearskin Lake First Nation communities, combining forfunding.

LEARN MORE

> Visit Mishkeegogamang First Nation
> About the NOHFC's programs

CONTACTS

Anne-Marie Flanagan
Minister's Office
416-327-0655
anne-marie.flanagan@ontario.ca

Michel Lavoie
Communications Branch
705-564-7125
michel.lavoie@ontario.ca