MASSEY – The Ontario government is providing more than $666,000 through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) to the Township of Sables-Spanish Rivers for three economic development projects. This investment will improve municipal and recreational infrastructure and promote physical and social activities in Northeastern Ontario.

“Our government is focused on investing in communities and creating recreational facilities that promote wellness in the Northeast,” said Greg Rickford, Minister of Northern Development. “Our new and improved NOHFC programs ensure northern municipal partners, like the Township of Sables-Spanish Rivers, have access to the timely supports they need to provide safe and vibrant spaces.”

The NOHFC is funding the following projects:

• $448,275 for the Township of Sables-Spanish Rivers to install a new roof membrane on the Massey and District Community Centre
• $121,316 for the Township of Sables-Spanish Rivers to install a new arena chiller in the Massey and District Community Centre
• $96,450 for the Township of Sables-Spanish Rivers to renovate the Webbwood Outdoor Rink. Renovations include electrical upgrades and the installation of netting at both ends of the ice surface, three gates and new boards.

“The NOHFC funding we received allowed us to complete the vital roof repair at the Massey and District Community Centre, the chiller replacement project at the arena, and the Webbwood Outdoor Rink upgrades, ” said Kevin Burke, Mayor, Township of Sables-Spanish Rivers. “The township is immensely grateful for the support, and this funding will undoubtly benefit all residents who enjoy our local sports and events.”

The NOHFC promotes economic prosperity across Northern Ontario by providing financial assistance to projects—big and small, rural and urban—that stimulate growth, job creation and skills development. Since June 2018, the NOHFC has invested more than $685 million in 5,656 projects in Northern Ontario, leveraging more than $2.3 billion in investment and creating or sustaining over 9,000 jobs.

Quick Fact

• The Ontario government launched new and improved NOHFC programs that support more projects in rural northern communities and make it easier for more people and businesses to apply. The programs target existing and emerging markets, provide more work opportunities for Indigenous people and address the skilled labour shortage in the North.

Additional Resources

• The NOHFC, Northern Development Offices and Small Business Enterprise Centres are available to support northern communities, businesses and other stakeholders in identifying economic development opportunities and assist in accessing government funding programs.

• The NOHFC’s Community Enhancement Program builds strong and resilient northern communities through targeted investments in critical infrastructure.

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Media Contacts

Curtis Lindsay, Minister’s Office — 437-240-7317 — curtis.lindsay@ontario.ca

Media Desk, Communications Branch — mediadesk.ndm@ontario.ca