November 6, 2026
Provincial funding to renovate and upgrade 11 Legions in the North will ensure safe, welcoming spaces to honour Veterans and bring community members together
NORTHERN ONTARIO — The Ontario government is investing $1,349,142 through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) to support facility renovations and upgrades at 11 northern Ontario Royal Canadian Legion branches. As part of its plan to protect Ontario, the province is making strategic investments to revitalize important infrastructure that supports stronger, more connected communities, creates jobs and boosts economic activity, while honouring those who served in the Canadian Armed Forces and Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
“Northern Ontario’s Royal Canadian Legion branches provide vital support and services to Veterans, seniors, youth and many other community members, while also preserving and promoting remembrance across Ontario,” said George Pirie, Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth. “Through NOHFC funding, Legion branches can invest in facility improvements that create welcoming, accessible spaces where people can gather, host events and remember.”
NOHFC-funded Legion projects across northern Ontario include:
- Royal Canadian Legion Branch 78 in Sioux Lookout – also known as Edwin Switzer Memorial Legion, Branch 78 – is receiving $301,778 to build a new roof, renovate washrooms, replace carpeting with new flooring, and install energy-efficient lighting and a new HVAC system.
- Royal Canadian Legion Branch 213 in Longlac is receiving $200,000 to upgrade the electrical and plumbing systems and install new drywall, ceiling tiles, flooring, lighting, kitchen equipment and bathroom fixtures.
- Royal Canadian Legion Branch 183 in Marathon is receiving $50,485 to install a water softener and reverse osmosis system, replace hot water tanks, and install new flooring in the main hall.
- Royal Canadian Legion Branch 336 in Falconbridge is receiving $31,856 to install new flooring and purchase banquet tables and chairs.
“Ontario’s Veterans answered the call to protect our freedoms, and we have a responsibility to make sure their service is never forgotten,” said Graham McGregor, Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism. “As Remembrance Day approaches, this investment in northern Legion branches will help improve the spaces that Veterans, their families and community members rely on to connect, access support and gather in remembrance.”
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 9,011 projects in northern Ontario, leveraging more than $3.4 billion in investment and creating or sustaining over 13,900 jobs.
Quotes
“The recent grant authorized by the NOHFC has proven invaluable in strengthening the long-term sustainability and modernization of the Edwin Switzer Memorial Legion, Branch 78. This critical investment has enabled essential upgrades to the facility, improved operational efficiency and enhanced the overall safety and accessibility of the building. By supporting much-needed repairs, infrastructure improvements and updated systems, the grant has ensured that the Legion is well positioned to continue serving residents, partner organizations and visitors from surrounding northern communities for years to come. With these improvements, the Legion is better equipped to host the wide range of events, gatherings and services that enrich the region.”
– Kirk Drew, President, Royal Canadian Legion Branch 78
“NOHFC funding is helping Royal Canadian Legion Branch 213 modernize a vital community hub in Longlac. As a non-profit organization, we greatly appreciate the Province’s support in ensuring there is a welcoming place for people to come together. Through our programs and services, combined with support from NOHFC, we are better able to assist local Veterans, seniors and youth, provide volunteer opportunities that support those in need, and offer a gathering place that strengthens our community.”
– Vicky Budge, President, Royal Canadian Legion Branch 213
“Royal Canadian Legion Branch 183 is celebrating its 80th year of existence, providing a myriad of services for individuals, groups and organizations in the Marathon and surrounding areas. This is in addition to our primary focus in honouring those who gave their lives for our freedom, while attending to the needs of armed forces Veterans and those still in active service. The recent NOHFC grant we have received was absolutely critical in enabling us to execute much-needed infrastructure upgrades to our facility. It will allow us to continue meeting ongoing demand for our services. Our Legion is extremely appreciative of the support we have received from the NOHFC and of the role it plays in supporting organizations such as ours throughout northern Ontario.”
– Bob Gregor, Fundraising Chairman, Royal Canadian Legion Branch 183
“With support from the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation, the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 336 Falconbridge/Garson was able to transform its main hall into a safe and more functional meeting space for its members and the community. By replacing the flooring and purchasing tables and chairs, we can better accommodate events and activities in a welcoming and comfortable facility.”
– Larry Furmanic, President, Royal Canadian Legion Branch 336
Additional Resources
- The NOHFC, Northern Development Offices and Small Business Advisory Centres support northern communities, businesses and other stakeholders in identifying economic development opportunities and government funding programs.
Media ContactReid Alexander Media Relations |
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