September 10, 2026
Provincial funding will support four projects to revitalize public spaces and help local business grow
RICHARDS LANDING — The Ontario government is investing $576,462 through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) to support four projects that will help build a stronger, more vibrant Richards Landing. As part of its plan to protect Ontario and ensure the North remains a great place to live and work, the province is making strategic investments across the region that help businesses grow and create good-paying jobs, and revitalize community hubs for residents and visitors to enjoy for years to come.
“Our government is supporting projects that help communities and businesses reach their full potential,” said George Pirie, Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth. “With this NOHFC investment, a local fibre mill will be able to expand its operations and community facilities will undergo vital renovations that keep the Richards Landing a great place to live and work.”
The Township of St. Joseph is receiving funding for the following projects in Richards Landing:
- $200,000 to fix the rink surface, replace the lighting to improve safety and install accessible doors at Tranter Rink
- $173,916 to build a commercial kitchen at the Dr. H.S. Trefry Memorial Centre, which will allow for more efficient delivery of the Meals on Wheels program and support other services for seniors, youth, persons with disabilities and locals
- $165,401 to revitalize the WI Park and Beach and pickleball courts, which includes improving accessibility and walking paths, putting in a water bottle filling station, resurfacing the asphalt pickleball pad, painting new court lines and installing new fences, posts and nets.
Additionally, Masters Fibre Mill and Alpaca Farm is receiving $37,145 to expand its product line. The company raises alpacas to produce yarn, and will now be able to make clothes using alpaca wool as well as hire more workers. The mill will put funding toward purchasing machinery and systems that will enhance efficiency, training staff and upgrading the building’s cooling and electrical systems.
“On behalf of the Province of Ontario, I would like to extend my sincere congratulations to the Township of St. Joseph on your successful funding from the NOHFC for the Dr. H.S. Trefry Memorial Centre commercial kitchen and WI Park Pedestrian and Pickleball Court projects as well as the Tranter Rink upgrades,” said Bill Rosenberg, Member of Provincial Parliament for Algoma – Manitoulin. “These projects are important community infrastructures that are enjoyed by residents and visitors alike. Congratulations and wishing continued success to everyone involved with these important projects and supporting a healthier future for the community.”
The Ontario government is prioritizing investments through the NOHFC that protect northern industries and jobs, mitigate the impacts of U.S. tariffs and trade disruptions and secure new opportunities for the long-term prosperity of northern Ontario. The renewed focus is boosting competitiveness and ensuring the North remains a leader in Ontario’s economy. This new direction is in addition to the province’s increased investment, bringing the NOHFC’s annual budget to a total of $110 million. Together, these initiatives will benefit communities of all sizes, both rural and urban, including Indigenous communities.
Quick Facts
- Through its funding programs, the NOHFC offers support to public and private sector economic development projects across northern Ontario.
- Since June 2018, the NOHFC has invested more than $1.1 billion in over 8,900 projects in northern Ontario, leveraging more than $3.4 billion in investment and creating or sustaining over 13,850 jobs.
Quotes
“The Township of St. Joseph is grateful for the support received through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation. The completed improvements at the Trefry Centre, WI Park and Tranter Rink are already making a positive difference in our community. The Trefry Centre has successfully brought its Meals on Wheels program in-house, strengthening local service delivery, while the upgraded pickleball courts and pathways at WI Park are being enjoyed regularly by residents and visitors alike. The renewed rink surface helps our outdoor ice surface last longer, and the lighting and accessible doors make the facility more accessible. These projects have enhanced important community assets and will provide lasting benefits for years to come.”
– Amanda Richardson, CAO/Clerk-Treasurer, Township of St. Joseph
“Congratulations to the Masters Fibre Mill and Alpaca Farm on your NOHFC funding for the purchase of automated knitting machines and the infrastructure and training to support this important investment. Innovation and determination are the backbone of small business ownership, and I am thrilled to celebrate this funding with you. I hope this investment is a positive addition to your operations and helps support your continued growth and accomplishments. Please accept my best wishes for continued success!”
– Lorna Masters, Co-owner/President, Masters Fibre Mill and Alpaca Farm
Additional Resources
- The NOHFC, Northern Development Offices and Small Business Enterprise Centres support northern communities, businesses and other stakeholders in identifying economic development opportunities and government funding programs.
Media ContactSam McCormick Media Relations |
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