KENORA – The Ontario government is providing $490,000 through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) to the City of Kenora to activate the green space surrounding the Central Community Club. This investment in community infrastructure will increase recreational opportunities and improve physical activity and quality of life in Northwestern Ontario.

“Our government is focused on investing in projects that support vibrant recreational amenities and improve mental and physical wellness,” said Greg Rickford, Minister of Northern Development and Member of Provincial Parliament for Kenora–Rainy River. “By enhancing the green space surrounding the Central Community Club in Kenora, we are expanding the community’s offerings and supporting an incredible space for youth, families and seniors.”

The City of Kenora is receiving $490,000 in NOHFC funding to build accessible trails, lighting, benches, landscaping materials and canopy trees for shade around the new playground, outdoor rink and clubhouse at the Central Community Club. The project will benefit residents and visitors of all ages by enhancing access to green space and recreation opportunities in a central location in Kenora.

“Investments in recreation and public spaces for everyone to enjoy are important for a connected and active community,” said Andrew Poirier, Mayor of the City of Kenora. “This funding has provided the City with the opportunity to beautify this space that can be used by families for years to come. We are grateful to NOHFC for supporting this project and the support of our community.”

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.

Media Contacts

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

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