Announcement marks opening of new facility supported by the Province

October 14, 2025

MARATHON — The Ontario government has invested $2 million through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) to help the North of Superior Healthcare Group build cultural communal space in Wilson Memorial General Hospital’s long-term care facility, which is hosting its grand opening today. As part of the government’s plan to protect Ontario, this funding will help build a stronger, healthier and a self-reliant community in Marathon and enable long-term care residents to connect with family and friends in a welcoming and accessible space.

“Our government continues to make strategic investments through the NOHFC to drive economic growth in Northern Ontario and improve the lives of northern residents and families” said George Pirie, Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth. “Our investment to support the addition of a new community gathering space in Marathon will help build connections and promote well-being.”

The North of Superior Healthcare Group used NOHFC funding to build the dining room, recreation room, chapel, public washrooms and corridors in Wilson Memorial General Hospital’s long-term care facility. Key benefits of the project include the creation of a number of full-time jobs, increased local spending on goods and services and improved quality of life for the long-term care residents by allowing them to age in their community.

“This funding is helping us create welcoming, accessible common spaces that allow our long-term care residents to remain connected with their loved ones and age with dignity in their home community,” said Adam Brown, CEO of North of Superior Healthcare Group. “The support not only enhances quality of life, but also strengthens the social and economic fabric of Marathon, Biigtigong Nishnaabeg and Netmizaaggamig Nishnaabeg.”

“Our government continues to build modern, safe and comfortable long-term care homes for seniors and residents,” said Natalia Kusendova-Bashta, Minister of Long-Term Care. “Part of providing Ontarians the care they need when they need it is building and redeveloping right in their communities. For northerners in Marathon, the NOHFC has made this possible by funding crucial shared spaces in this new, community-minded long-term care home.”

“The province’s investment in expanding Marathon’s long-term care capacity through the newly completed Barrick Care Wing is a meaningful step forward for our community,” said Rick Dumas, Mayor of Marathon. “It will enhance access to high-quality care for local residents and our First Nation neighbours, while helping build a more resilient, inclusive and connected region. This project supports our healthcare professionals, strengthens our local economy and ensures families can receive the care they need close to home.”

Announced in June 2025, the Ontario government is refocusing the NOHFC to prioritize investments 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 $978 million in 7,840 projects in Northern Ontario, leveraging more than $2.9 billion in investment and creating or sustaining over 12,170 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.