October 8, 2026
Provincial funding supports eight projects that will support community infrastructure and help non-profit business grow
BRUCE MINES — The Ontario government is investing $1.17 million through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) to support eight projects in Bruce Mines and the surrounding region. As part of its plan to protect Ontario, the province is making strategic investments to help communities improve local infrastructure across the North and ensure organizations in key sectors can continue to expand operations.
“Northern Ontario has so much to offer, and our government is ensuring the region continues to grow and attract residents, workers and visitors,” said George Pirie, Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth. “This NOHFC funding is bringing great benefits to the Algoma District, including strengthening our agriculture sector, revitalizing attractions and promoting community engagement and active living.”
As part of this investment, the following projects are receiving NOHFC funding:
- Penokean Hills Co-operative Inc. raises beef cattle in Thessalon and has been approved for $290,000 to expand its property and buy a grain cleaner, grain processor and tractor, allowing the non-profit organization to feed and care for animals more efficiently.
- Johnson Township has been approved for $264,263 to upgrade the heating and cooling systems at its arena and community centre, which will ensure the space can continue to host recreation activities and events, as well as be an emergency response, cooling and warming centre, supporting residents’ well-being and safety.
- The Town of Bruce Mines has been approved for $200,000 to revitalize the Simpson Mine Shaft, including restoring exhibits and improving accessibility, which will ensure the museum can continue encouraging tourism and sharing local history. The town has also been approved for $116,010, which will support a four-kilometre extension and general upgrades at the Historic Mines Trail, including new signs, benches and picnic tables.
- The Rydal Bank Historical Society has been approved for $124,718 to install a new roof and well at its community hall, thus protecting the organization’s artifacts and ensuring the space can remain an emergency shelter and venue for events. The non-profit organization has also been approved for $44,100 to reinforce the exterior of the Rydal Bank Church, which will ensure the historic building can hold gatherings for years to come.
- The Township of Plummer Additional is receiving $108,000 to build a fitness centre in its community hall, which will welcome people of all ages and abilities and support healthy, active living.
- The Bruce Mines and Plummer Additional Union Public Library has been approved for $30,780 to install new roof shingles on the building and refurbish its washrooms, reducing maintenance costs and improving safety and accessibility.
“Congratulations to the Penokean Hills Co-operative, the Bruce Mines and Plummer Additional Union Public Library Board, the Town of Bruce Mines, the Rydal Bank Historical Society, the Bruce Mines Trailblazers and Johnson Township on their successful NOHFC funding,” said Bill Rosenberg, Member of Provincial Parliament for Algoma—Manitoulin. “These investments support our agricultural sector, strengthen community infrastructure, preserve our rich local history and heritage and enhance recreational opportunities. They reflect the dedication of local organizations, volunteers and community leaders who are building stronger, safer and more vibrant communities across the region. On behalf of the Province of Ontario, I congratulate everyone involved and look forward to seeing these projects benefit residents and visitors for years to come.”
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 approved more than $1.1 billion for 9,000-plus projects in northern Ontario, leveraging more than $3.4 billion in investment, creating over 11,580 new jobs and sustaining over 2,345 jobs.
Quotes
“Penokean Hills Cooperative Inc. is grateful for the NOHFC contribution received towards capital improvements at its feedlot near Thessalon. The work includes equipment purchases for enhanced cattle feeding, care and comfort, environmental improvements to its Nutrient Management Plan and increased tillable acreage for cattle-feed production. These enhancements will increase work efficiency, ensure adequate environmental protection and lead to long-term sustainability. Penokean Hills Cooperative Inc. is positioned for future success. Its livestock feeding program is contributing to regional agri-business growth in northeastern Ontario, due in part to the financial support of the Ontario government.”
– Michael Tulloch, Operations Manager, Penokean Hills Co-operative Inc.
“The Johnson Township Community Centre is the hub of the Central Algoma area, providing hockey, figure skating, a warming and cooling centre as well as fitness programs and social activities for all ages. With the Central Algoma Secondary School, Central Algoma Elementary School and the EarlyON Centre housed in Johnson Township, we want a safe environment for them to go to if emergencies arise and the Johnson Township Community Centre is there to provide this. Thank you to the NOHFC for this grant to do the necessary upgrades and provide year-round enjoyment not only for our residents but for the residents of the surrounding areas.”
– Janet Maguire, CAO and Clerk, Johnson Township
“We are truly grateful for the support of the NOHFC. This funding has allowed the Rydal Bank Historical Society to preserve two important heritage buildings, the Rydal Bank Community Hall and the Rydal Bank Church, while ensuring they remain accessible and useful for future generations. The improvements to the church have preserved its historic appearance while significantly reducing ongoing maintenance, and the upgrades to the community hall have strengthened its role as a gathering place for local families and a space where our community’s history can be shared. Most importantly, this investment has allowed us to spend less time and valuable volunteer resources on maintenance and more time keeping these facilities active and accessible.”
– Jean Hershey, Secretary, Rydal Bank Historical Society
“The Township of Plummer Additional is very grateful for the support received from the NOHFC toward our new fitness centre. This funding has allowed us to create an accessible and welcoming space where residents can focus on their health, wellness and quality of life. The fitness centre is a valuable addition to our community and will provide opportunities for residents of all ages to stay active and connected for years to come.”
– Line Webster, CAO-Treasurer, Township of Plummer Additional
“In small northern communities like Bruce Mines, residents do everything they can to keep our heritage alive and maintain important spaces like our public library, but the reality is that even the simplest projects can be out of reach for a town our size. That’s why it truly means a lot when the Government of Ontario recognizes these needs and invests in them. Funding bodies like the NOHFC demonstrate good governance. Support for the Simpson Mine Shaft exhibit and our library’s maintenance and accessibility upgrades makes a real difference here, and our community is sincerely grateful.”
– Judy Davis, Clerk, Town of Bruce Mines
Additional Resources
- The NOHFC, Northern Development Offices and Ontario Small Business Advisory 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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