Federal funding to help modernize local infrastructure and create safe and accessible recreational spaces

August 24, 2022 – St.-Charles, ON – Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario – FedNor 

Canadian cities and towns flourish when they have public community spaces for social and physical activities and where the public has access to recreational programs and facilities. In Northern Ontario and across Canada, these amenities are important to the overall well-being of individuals, families and communities.

Today, Marc G. Serré, Member of Parliament for Nickel Belt and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Official Languages, announced a FedNor investment of $190,127 for upgrades to the St. Charles Community Centre that will increase building accessibility, safety and energy efficiency. The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor.

Provided through the Canada Community Revitalization Fund (CCRF), the investment will allow the Municipality of St.-Charles to complete energy efficient updates to the local community centre such as installing a high efficiency furnace and upgrading insulation, windows, door and trims. The funding will also support accessibility enhancements to the kitchen, ticket booth and bar, including the addition of a fully accessible family washroom, installation of entrance ramps and a wheelchair lift for the stage. This investment will also be used to upgrade kitchen facilities, Wi-Fi and fire alarm systems and install a digital events sign.

The CCRF was launched in June 2021, and provides $500 million over two years to Canada’s regional development agencies to invest in shared and inclusive public spaces. As public health restrictions ease due to the pandemic, the Government of Canada remains committed to investing in shared spaces to make them safer, greener and more accessible. This, in turn, will stimulate local economies, create jobs, and improve the quality of life for Canadians.

Quotes

“We are improving communities big and small by revitalizing public spaces and creating safe and inclusive facilities that are accessible to all Canadians. The St.-Charles Community Centre serves as a recreational, social and economic hub in the municipality and I am proud that FedNor is investing over $190,000 to modernize this important local asset, making it safer, more efficient and fully-accessible.”

The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor

“Shared public spaces are essential to building healthy and prosperous communities that include everyone. I am thrilled this investment will allow the Municipality of St.-Charles to transform its community centre into a safe, modern and fully-accessible facility. This strategic investment is an excellent example of our commitment to support social and economic development in Nickel Belt communities and across Canada.”

• Marc G. Serré, Member of Parliament for Nickel Belt and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Official Languages