The provincial government on Thursday pledged more than $80,000 to support the arts and culture in Northwestern Ontario.
Culture minister Madeleine Meilleur first was in Atikokan on Thursday morning, where she presented the Atikokan Intergenerational Centre for Arts and Alternatives with a cheque for $28,000 to implement a pilot project entitled “Developing Your Creative Side—A Program for Geniuses.”
The program is intended to develop arts, heritage, and cultural opportunities for youth aged 12-19.
“Education is a priority of our government, and arts and culture are essential parts of a well-rounded education,” said Meilleur.
In addition, the centre also is receiving another $1,840 to hire a summer student to assist with the program.
Later, Meilleur paid a visit to Manitou Rapids, where she presented the Rainy River First Nations Resource Centre with some books and also met with band councillors and youth.
She then travelled to the Kay-Nah-Chi-Wah-Nung Historical Centre near Stratton, where she presented a cheque for $35,000 and took a tour of the historic mounds.
Kay-Nah-Chi-Wah-Nung also is receiving $16,000 from the Sports, Cultural, and Tourism Partnership for the development of a new exhibit there.
“Our government is pleased to support the Manitou Mounds Historical Centre in its efforts to preserve and promote this important part of province’s heritage,” Meilleur remarked.
“Our cultural heritage is very important,” she stressed. “It enriches the quality of life and it is an expression of who we are.”
Fort Frances Times
Local News from Across the Rainy River District
