Investment will ensure Legion continues to be safe, welcoming gathering place for community

October 10, 2025

ATIKOKAN — The Ontario government is investing $90,228 through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) to renovate the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 145 facility in the Town of Atikokan. As part of the government’s plan to protect Ontario, this funding is building a stronger, healthier and self-reliant community by enabling residents and visitors to gather and connect in a safe and inclusive space.

“As the only year-round facility that can host large events in Atikokan, our government is proud to support this important community asset so it can continue to be an accessible gathering place for all to enjoy – especially for our veterans. We want this facility to be an inviting place to honour those who served in the Canadian Armed Forces.” said George Pirie, Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth. “NOHFC investments like this one support spaces that foster growth, connection and well-being for all northerners.”

Royal Canadian Legion Branch 145 is using NOHFC funding to install new flooring and upgrade the electrical panel to allow for the installation of automatic door openers. The project will extend the lifespan of the facility and create a modern, accessible and welcoming gathering space for veterans and their families, as well as for locals and visitors attending events held there.

“I’m pleased to see our government investing in the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 145 in Atikokan,” said Kevin Holland, MPP for Thunder Bay-Atikokan. “The Legion has long been a cornerstone of the community, a place where residents come together to honour our veterans, celebrate local events and support one another. By investing in these renovations, we are ensuring this important gathering place remains safe, accessible and welcoming for everyone for years to come.”

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.