New centre will be a hub for Indigenous people to gather, learn and celebrate
November 27, 2025
THUNDER BAY — The Ontario government is investing $2 million through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) to help the Thunder Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre create a new, accessible community space for Indigenous people in the city. As part of its plan to protect Ontario, this investment supports the government’s commitment to reconciliation by investing in community supports and services for Indigenous people, strengthening Indigenous partnerships and ensuring communities in the North have the infrastructure needed to remain strong and resilient.
“Our government is proud to support the Thunder Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre as it expands into a new space to better serve its community for years to come,” said George Pirie, Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth. “With funding support from the province, the new centre will create a safe, welcoming cultural space for Indigenous people that nurtures healing, development and self-determination.”
The Thunder Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre is using NOHFC funding to renovate a newly purchased building on Red River Road. Once complete, it will be a welcoming space, free from discrimination, with a strong focus on healing and wellness. The additional space will allow the centre to expand access to services such as education, skills development, housing, justice and health care. It will also offer traditional teachings and cultural programming and activities that help strengthen identity and connection.
“I would like to thank the Government of Ontario for investing and believing in our organization’s vision,” said Roseanna Hudson, President, Thunder Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre. “Through the assistance provided by NOHFC, the Thunder Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre is able to proceed with the renovation of our Red River Road location. It will be used for creating connections and provide the community with a traditional gathering space that is safe and modern for programming.”
“Expanding the Thunder Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre will strengthen the supports available to Indigenous families in our community,” said Kevin Holland, MPP for Thunder Bay-Atikokan. “I’m grateful to everyone whose work has helped move this project forward. This investment will help create a welcoming space that supports community, culture and opportunity for years to come.”
The Ontario government is committed to 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 recently announced investment of an additional $30 million over the next three years, 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 $983 million in 7,951 projects in Northern Ontario, leveraging more than $2.9 billion in investment and creating or sustaining over 12,350 jobs.
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.
Quotes
“Your presence and generous gift create a nurturing space for our mind, body and spirit, laying the foundation for a good way of life – Mino Bimaadiziwin,” said Charlene Baglien, Executive Director, Thunder Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre. “Chi-miigwetch for your support!”
“The Thunder Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre plays a vital role in supporting community members by offering a culturally safe, welcoming space, equipped with essential services and traditional teachings,” said Greg Rickford, Minister of Indigenous Affairs and First Nations Economic Reconciliation and Minister Responsible for Ring of Fire Economic and Community Partnerships. “This investment provides the capacity to expand these vital community supports, ensuring that the centre remains a place of healing, learning and belonging.”
| Media Contact
Sam McCormick Media Desk
|
news.ontario.ca/MNEDG/en Disponible en français |
