Missanabie Cree First Nation is making progress in establishing a new Indigenous evacuation center on its traditional lands in northern Ontario, set to open this spring. Chief Jason Gauthier announced that the facility, situated approximately 340 kilometers north of Sault Ste. Marie, will feature 360 rooms and can accommodate up to 600 individuals who are compelled to evacuate their residences during emergencies like wildfires and floods.
Typically, displaced individuals seek lodging in hotels far from their communities, often traveling to urban areas such as Niagara Falls and Barrie in southern Ontario. For example, residents of Kashechewan First Nation had to depart their community in response to a water crisis in January, with over 1,000 individuals finding refuge in Niagara Falls.
Describing the upcoming shelter, Gauthier emphasized that the Missanabie Cree’s evacuation center will provide a comforting environment for evacuees while honoring their cultural heritage. He highlighted that although the center may not offer all the amenities of an urban setting, it will exude a familiar “reserve feeling” that many Indigenous Nations seek during evacuations.
The evacuation center will feature a commercial kitchen, classrooms, and areas designated for cultural activities. Originally slated for a 2024 opening, the project faced delays due to funding issues and inclement weather conditions. However, Gauthier expressed confidence that the construction will be finalized by the year’s end.
In securing over $50 million in federal funding from Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) for the project, Missanabie Cree has taken significant strides toward completing the center. When contacted for comment, ISC mentioned that further information on projects and funding commitments will be shared in collaboration with partners at a later date.