October 25, 2024 — Sandy Lake First Nation, Treaty 5 Territory, Ontario — Indigenous Services Canada and Sandy Lake First Nation

Sandy Lake First Nation, with funding support from Indigenous Services Canada, is bringing a new era of modern health services to its community as the Sandy Lake Community Health Center opens its doors today, serving the health needs of the over 2,600 residents living on reserve in the remote, fly-in Northern Ontario community. Over 1,765 square metres, the facility will ensure that more Sandy Lake residents are able to access health services in their community, reducing health outcome disparities and enabling them to get healthcare when and where they want.

The Community Health Center provides the expanded space, services, and technology required to meet the growing needs of the community. Replacing a smaller, aging health centre and health professional accommodations, the new Centre brings the community’s health services together under one roof. It houses the community’s primary health care services, dental care, vision care, and addictions treatment services. The building is equipped with modern technology that supports its operations onsite as well as telemedicine to deliver health services remotely. The funding will also improve access to diverse healthcare services. The new build includes two detached apartment buildings—with 10 units each—to house nursing staff and health care professionals visiting the community to provide care.   

Indigenous Services Canada provided over $50 million to support this community-led project. Through this investment, the community is now better equipped to meet the health needs of residents.