Indigenous youth may be safer in Thunder Bay with repurposed facility

Matawa First Nations Management intends to turn a former long-term care facility in Thunder Bay into an education and care centre. City Council has approved and ratified its intent to grant Grandview Lodge to Matawa on Aug. 28.

“The signing of this letter of intent between Matawa and the City of Thunder Bay is a major step forward in improving the safety of First Nation youth that come to Thunder Bay to obtain a high school education,” said Acting Mayor Linda Rydholm. “We recognize the significant importance of this project, its benefits and how Matawa intends to execute it.”

“This represents an important first step which will allow Matawa to create a home for its students, where they can feel safe and secure, and feel a sense of family,” said David Paul Achneepineskum, Matawa First Nations CEO.

“Our vision is to use a holistic approach, meeting the emotional, physical and academic needs of the Matawa First Nation students. We look forward to working with our other community partners to develop this facility.” 

Matawa will hold a series of events as part of its “Neighbourhood Outreach program” to get to know Northwood residents and businesses in the area.  A neighborhood barbeque will be held.