M’CHIGEENG FIRST NATION—Through approval of a sizable funding amount from Jordan’s Principle, as well as fundraising carried out by members of the community, about 55 youths from M’Chigeeng First Nation will all be able to take part in the 50th annual Little Native Hockey League (LNHL) tournament in March.
“The funding we have received from Jordan’s Principle will help out immensely with the costs all our young hockey players (and families) taking part in the Little NHL in Markham,” said Morgan Hare, chief of the M’Chigeeng First Nation. “And the fundraising that Kim Aelick and Debbie Debassige did over the recent B.J. Corbiere Memorial Tournament raised a sizable amount. Along with some other fundraising that had been done in the community from other events, and the approval of funding from the Jordan’s Principle, it brought the funds to a level that there will be no hardship to the kids or any of the families.”
“M’Chigeeng First Nation is delighted to announce approval of Jordan’s Principle funding in the amount of $105,578 which will provide invaluable support to our children and youth hockey players,” a statement on the M’Chigeeng Facebook page by Enaagdenjged (band manager) Roger Beaudin explains. “This funding will enable their participation in the upcoming Little Native Hockey League (LNHL) scheduled March 10-15 in Markham, Ontario. The goal is to support all M’Chigeeng children playing in LNHL as well as children/youth that our supporting our community.”
Mr. Beaudin explained, “Jordan’s Principle has recognized the importance of supporting young athletes from M’Chigeeng, and as a result, has approved the allocation of funds to cover various expenses associated with the LNHL tournament.” These approved costs include accommodation, meal and gas money. The total for a registered child/youth is estimated at $1,500.
“This funding not only encourages the participation of M’Chigeeng’s young athletes in the LNHL tournament but also reflects the commitment of Jordan’s Principle to ensure equitable opportunities for children and youth in Indigenous communities across Canada,” continued Mr. Beaudin. “We are so excited to witness our young athletes’ achievements at the LNHL tournament and look forward to their incredible journey in Markham. Chi-miigwetch to the work provided by previous Jordan Principle navigator Joy Simon and the M’Chigeeng LNHL fundraising committee.”
