REGINA - A pair of First Nations will benefit from infrastructure funding, thanks to the a combined investment of more than $13.5 million from the governments of Canada and Saskatchewan.
The Pheasant Rump Nakota First Nation will use the funding to build a 7,800-square-foot Indigenous cultural Centre to promote the Nakota language and culture. Features include a rooftop patio and arbour connecting to Nakota lands, offering a safe and accessible space for community engagement with traditional knowledge, languageand culture.
The federal government will supply $3,350499 and the province will commit $1,116,833.
Also, the Local Government District of the White Bear First Nation will recive money for the construction of a publicly-accessible, all-ages spray park and social gathering place. This will include water play equipment, full wheelchair accessibility and a recirculating water treatment system.
The feds will contribute $266,987 and the province will provide $88,995.
These projects, announced Wednesday, enhance access to recreational activities, promote reconciliation with Indigenous communities, ensure accessible and reliable water supply, and foster inclusive and sustainable communities for years to come.
They were announced by Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities of Canada, Dan Vandal, Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada, and Saskatchewan Government Relations Minister Don McMorris.
A future edition of the Observer will have more on this story.