Ontario is increasing learning opportunities and creating safe community spaces by investing in skills training and infrastructure development in northeastern Ontario.

Through the Aboriginal Economic Development Fund (AEDF) and the Aboriginal Community Capital Grants Program (ACCGP) the province is investing in:

  • The Basic Underground Hard Rock Miner Common Core program, which is currently being delivered to members of the Wahgoshig First Nation at Northern College. The certification will allow participants to get jobs in the mining industry.
  • Safer community spaces by providing funding to replace the Kapuskasing Friendship Centre’s roof.

Supporting learning opportunities and creating safe community spaces is one of the many steps on Ontario’s journey of reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. It reflects the government’s commitment to work with Indigenous partners, creating a better future for everyone in the province.

Investing in infrastructure and skills training is part of our plan to create jobs, grow our economy and help people in their everyday lives.

Ontario provided $248,403 through the AEDF to the Wahgoshig First Nation to support the Basic Underground Hard Rock Miner Common Core program. The AEDF has supported four intakes of the program. Ontario provided $147,870 through the ACCGP to the Kapuskasing Friendship Centre to replace its roof.

“The Aboriginal Economic Development Fund and Aboriginal Community Capital Grants Program are helping Indigenous communities and organizations create, diversify and collaborate. We’re excited to see how these grants will help Indigenous communities and organizations in Northeastern Ontario build bright and prosperous futures.” – David Zimmer, Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation

“At Northern College, we are driven by our commitment to increasing access to educational opportunities for members of Indigenous communities. That’s why we’re delighted to be working with Wahgoshig First Nation and Primero Mining Corp to offer increased access to our Underground Hard Rock Miner Common Core program to local Indigenous learners. This modular training program provides students with the specific skills and hands-on training required to work effectively and safely in the mining industry.” –  Christine Heavens, Executive Director, Community, Business Development and Employment Services, Northern College

“The Aboriginal Community Capital Grants Program through the Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation granted us the essential funding to replace our failing roof to ensure continuous, uninterrupted social services to over 1,200 Indigenous community members in our catchment area. These essential services ensure our clients reach their individual goal of a healthy balanced life in a safe environment.” –  Sue Piché, Executive Director, Kapuskasing Friendship Centre

Filed under: Local News