Copyright Caledonia Courier
Community infrastructure in Kitimat and the Metlakatla First Nation near Prince Rupert is getting a boost through the Northern Healthy Communities Fund (NHCF), with more than $150,000 in combined provincial funding. The Kitimat Community Services Society is receiving $14,930 to renovate the Kitimat Youth Centre, which serves marginalized youth aged 10 to 18. With a total project cost of $18,676, upgrades include new appliances to support a food and nutrition program and improve the comfort of the drop-in space. In Metlakatla, a $135,678 grant will support a $169,600 upgrade to the community’s fire hall. The project aims to address urgent health and safety risks with new equipment and personal protective gear. The First Nation has signed two pipeline agreements with the province, and the resulting economic activity has placed additional demands on emergency services. These Northwest initiatives are among 18 projects selected in 2025 to share $5.6 million through the NHCF, which supports communities experiencing pressures from large-scale industrial development, particularly near LNG Canada and Coastal GasLink sites. “When families and individuals have access to better services close to home, it means more opportunities and more time together,” said Christine Boyle, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs. “As Northwest communities have grown, we’ve invested in people by helping them stay connected, cared for and safe in their communities.” The NHCF provides up to $500,000 per capital project and up to $300,000 for capacity-building initiatives. Eligible projects focus on enhancing access to housing, health care, child care, emergency services and other essential supports. “From child care to emergency services, people depend on local programs that are close to home,” said Brittny Anderson, Minister of State for Local Governments and Rural Communities. “We’re collaborating with local governments, First Nations and community partners who understand their region’s unique needs, ensuring Northwest communities have the resources they need to stay strong and connected.” Administered by the Northern Development Initiative Trust (NDIT), the NHCF supports community-led economic growth throughout the region. “The three intakes through the Northern Healthy Communities Fund in 2025 were competitive, and the successful applicants will be delivering meaningful projects and results to their communities,” said Ben Campbell, CEO of the NDIT. “The work of these 18 proponents, supported by over $5 million in committed investment, will bolster the fabric of their communities for years to come.” Since its launch in 2021, the NHCF has committed more than $25 million to approximately 130 projects.
