Celebrating Canada’s Cultural Diversity in the Thunder Bay Region

Written by FedNor on 09 September 2016

MP Patty Hajdu and MPP Michael Gravelle with representatives of the centre. Supplied photo

MP Patty Hajdu (centre) and MPP Michael Gravelle (2nd on left) with representatives of Thunder Bay Francophone organizations. Supplied photo

Government of Canada Investment Promotes Community Economic Development

THUNDER BAY, ON – September 8, 2016, the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Status of Women and Member of Parliament for Thunder Bay—Superior North, on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, and Minister responsible for FedNor, announced an investment of $421,408 in support of five initiatives in the Thunder Bay region.

“The Government of Canada is committed to partnering with Francophone organizations to ensure the vitality of French linguistic minority communities in Canada. Today’s announcement will raise awareness of those Northwestern Ontario businesses that offer services in French, create new economic opportunities, and celebrate Canada’s proud culture and heritage by hosting a new festival and renovating key community facilities.” The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, and Minister responsible for FedNor

Provided through FedNor’s Economic Development Initiative (EDI) and Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program (CIP 150), this funding will support renovations to community facilities, as well as business development and economic growth activities in the region.

“This investment will enable funding recipients to strengthen partnerships to assist Francophone organizations to reach new markets and be more competitive in Northern Ontario. In keeping with the inclusive theme of today’s announcement, the installation of an elevator at the Thunder Bay Multicultural Centre will ensure all people can access the organization’s services.’’ The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Status of Women and Member of Parliament for Thunder Bay—Superior North

Organizations that will benefit from this announcement include the Coopérative du regroupement des organismes francophones de Thunder Bay Inc., the Thunder Bay Multicultural Centre, and the Association des Francophones du Nord-Ouest de l’Ontario.

Quick facts

FedNor’s EDI is part of the federal government’s Roadmap for Canada’s Official Languages 2013-2018. The EDI helps foster the development of new expertise in innovation, economic diversification and business growth in Northern Ontario’s Francophone communities (the region’s official language minority communities) and capitalize on economic opportunities made possible through linguistic duality.
CIP 150 is designed to leave a lasting legacy by supporting the rehabilitation or improvement of existing community infrastructure assets and facilities across the country that promote community and cultural benefits for the public. FedNor is delivering this program in Northern Ontario with an allocation of $10.4 million over two years, ending March 31st, 2018.

“On behalf of la Coopérative du regroupement des organismes francophones de Thunder Bay Inc., I would like to thank FedNor and the Government of Canada for their support that will allow us to continue our important work with the community, expand our services, and accommodate the needs of area newcomers and residents in a safe environment.” Denyse Culligan, Interim President, Coopérative du regroupement des organismes francophones de Thunder Bay Inc.

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