Provincial funding for Black-led community initiative

By Richard Coffin

The province says $166,600 in funding is helping address local priorities, remove barriers, and help young people build brighter futures.

Vic Fedeli, MPP for Nipissing, says the money is supporting the North Bay Indigenous Hub and Black Heritage Association of Nipissing District and Area (BHANDA).

“Our government is proud to invest in a project that will support the mental, social, and emotional well-being of Black and racialized youth in our community,” says Fedeli. “Under the Youth Innovations stream, this grassroots project will provide culturally responsive athletic, artistic, and educational local programming to help build confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging.”

Regan Jackson, BHANDA’s Executive Director, says they’re grateful for the support.

“This is the first time a Black-led community initiative in our region has been supported at this level, adding it affirms the importance of creating culturally grounded spaces where Black children and youth can thrive,” says Jackson. “This investment allows us to expand youth innovation, leadership, and wellbeing programs that have been built by our community, for our community.”

The money comes from the Ontario Trillium Foundation.

“The North Bay Indigenous Hub is grateful for the opportunity to support and mentor Black Heritage Association of Nipissing District and Area (BHANDA), a new grassroots organization, by sharing operational knowledge and guidance,” says Laureen Linklater-Pizzale, Chief Executive Officer of the North Bay Indigenous Hub. “We are proud to be part of this important initiative and to support the development of much-needed services for Black youth in our community.”

Richard Coffinhttps://www.mynorthbaynow.com/Richard Coffin has been a reporter and news anchor on the radio in North Bay for over 25 years.  From premiers to people in the neighbourhood, he enjoys connecting with newsmakers and writing stories that matter to area listeners on a variety of topics including healthcare, education, politics, sports and more.