Indigenous Friendship Centre Advances Renovation of Former Bank for Community Programming
The Thunder Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre (IFC) is moving forward with the transformation of a well-known downtown landmark. The former Bank of Montreal building, located at the corner of Court Street and Red River Road, is being redeveloped to support a range of community services.
Acquired by the IFC in 2023, the building is being repurposed to house several of the Centre’s core programs, including justice initiatives, healing and wellness services, and adult literacy and basic skills training. This expansion reflects the organization’s continued commitment to creating accessible, culturally grounded spaces that support urban Indigenous individuals and families in Thunder Bay.
As part of the renovation efforts, the IFC has secured up to $1 million in federal funding to install a new heat pump system designed to reduce the building’s carbon footprint. The funding is provided through the Indigenous Leadership Fund, part of the federal government’s Low Carbon Economy Fund, which supports Indigenous-led projects focused on clean energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable heating solutions.
While the renovations were initially expected to be completed by mid-2025, timelines have shifted slightly, and the project is now anticipated to wrap up later in the year. Once complete, the upgraded space will allow the IFC to expand its reach and programming while continuing to operate from its existing North Cumberland Street location.
This investment not only enhances local infrastructure but also supports the leadership of Indigenous organizations in the transition to a low-carbon future, ensuring that sustainability and cultural relevance go hand-in-hand.
