Repairs continuing at Ojibwe Cultural Foundation damaged by flooding

By Sam Laskaris

M’CHIGEENG FIRST NATION – A major fundraising drive was already underway for the Ojibwe Cultural Foundation.

But now additional repairs are required at the facility located on M’Chigeeng First Nation on Manitoulin Island.

That’s because a pipe burst within the facility on Jan. 25, causing extensive water damage to the centre’s flooring in its offices, studio, museum and gift shop.

The Ojibwe Cultural Foundation is a not-for-profit organization that has been operating since 1974. It was created to preserve and revitalize the language and culture, arts, spirituality and traditions of Anishinaabe people on Manitoulin Island and surrounding areas.

Besides M’Chigeeng, five other First Nations located on Manitoulin Island also support the centre. They are Aundeck Omni Kaning, Sheguiandah, Sheshegwaning, Whitefish River and Zhiibaahaasing.

Centre officials began a $1.2 million fundraising drive a few months ago for renovations and upgrades at the facility including the roof, skylight and stage and lodge chimney repairs.

But now, the priority has turned to repairing the water damage caused by the recent flood. Centre officials are keen to reopen the facility as soon as possible to resume activities.

Glen Hare, the executive director of the Ojibwe Cultural Foundation, is encouraged by how rapidly the repairs are being done.

After touring the facility on Feb. 3, he said machines that sucked up the water on the damaged floors were being removed.

The machines had been operating since Jan. 27 to absorb the moistness caused by the flood.

“The flooring is all ruined in the whole building,” said Hare, a former Grand Council Chief of Anishinabek Nation. “All the floors have to be replaced.”

Portions of the building do have cement flooring. And Hare said wood flooring will be put on top of that.

But carpeting, which had existed in segments of the building, will not be replaced. Instead, wood flooring will be throughout the building now.

“It is happening really quick,” Hare said of the floor repairs. “We’re hoping to have the centre open again in 2-3 weeks.”

An Elders Council gathering, which had been scheduled for Feb. 15 at the facility, has been moved to the Manitoulin Hotel and Conference Centre in Little Current.

Hare said some other events that had been booked for the cultural centre in the next few weeks will also be switched to other venues.

Hare added the centre was insured and he is hopeful that flood expenses and repairs will all be covered.

But the facility still needs plenty of money to reach its fundraising goals.

Hare said three private donations from citizens, totalling $30,000, have provided a jumpstart to the centre’s current fundraiser.

Hare joined the Ojibwe Cultural Foundation as its executive director this past September. One of his main roles will be to use his connections to seek funds for the facility.

“I’m a fundraiser,” he said. “I enjoy doing that kind of stuff. We don’t have much money. We never did have much money. No cultural centre does.”

Those looking to donate to the centre can contact Hare at (705) 282-7595.