Funding will support renovations to extend the life of important community hub for residents to come together and stay active
April 29, 2026
WHITEFISH FALLS — The Ontario government is investing $94,408 through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) to help the Rainbow Country Recreation and Development Association upgrade Whitefish Falls Community Centre. As part of the government’s plan to protect Ontario, the province is making strategic investments to help northern municipalities build and revitalize critical community infrastructure to create jobs and provide safe, accessible spaces for residents and visitors to enjoy.
“Our government’s NOHFC investment is helping to update and modernize Whitefish Falls Community Centre,” said George Pirie, Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth. “With our support, the Rainbow Country Recreation and Development Association is creating an inviting and accessible community space.”
Centrally located between Whitefish Falls and Willisville within the Rainbow Country Local Services Board, Whitefish Falls Community Centre operates as a social gathering space and emergency shelter. The Rainbow Country Recreation and Development Association is using NOHFC funding for exterior and interior renovations to the centre, including roofing upgrades, new flooring, insulation improvements and replacement of the furnace, amongst other activities. Once complete, the centre will be a modern, accessible and welcoming municipal hub, providing recreational and community services, as well as functioning as a rental facility.
“With support from the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation, the Rainbow Country Recreation and Development Association has transformed the Whitefish Falls Community Centre into a more welcoming and functional space for residents and visitors,” said Heather Nicholson, Secretary-Treasurer, Rainbow Country Recreation and Development Association. “The upgrades have expanded access to health, wellness and cultural programming, increased community use and created a more sustainable venue for local events. This investment is helping strengthen community life, support tourism and ensure the centre remains a vibrant hub for years to come.”
“On behalf of the Province of Ontario, I would like to extend my sincere congratulations on the approval of your NOHFC funding to renovate and enhance the community centre,” said Bill Rosenberg, Member of Provincial Parliament for Algoma-Manitoulin. “This community centre is the hub for events and gatherings for locals and visitors alike and this support is a testament to the dedication, effort and commitment you and your team have demonstrated in advancing your goals and serving your community. Please accept my best wishes for continued success and congratulations to everyone involved in this project.”
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 investment of an additional $30 million over 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 $1 billion in over 8000 projects in northern Ontario, leveraging more than $3 billion in investment and creating or sustaining over 12,500 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.
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