Batchewana First Nation is opening a $1.9-million community centre that will provide a space for cultural activities, job-skills training, health services, conferences and retail businesses.
The province’s Aboriginal Community Capital Grants Program is providing $501,500 for project, which will also create jobs and promote economic development opportunities in the community.
The community centre will include a 1,378-square-foot conference facility that can seat up to 140 people, a business incubation centre, retail stores, health and education facilities, a banquet hall, a full-service kitchen, and a computer centre.
“Batchewana First Nation is comprised of four separate land bases. Today, all of the people from each of our villages are celebrating,” Chief Dean Sayers said in a statement. “Our communities are now able to receive the same quality of programs and services, regardless of the area. This well-equipped facility will provide the foundation for our nation to prosper. Commendations go out to the people from Obadjiwan for their relentless efforts that have helped us reach this monumental achievement.”
The Aboriginal Community Capital Grants Program supports Aboriginal groups in building or improving community centres and small business centres across the province. Since October 2003, the program has provided more than $30.7 million to Aboriginal communities through 112 major and minor capital grants and related feasibility studies.
