The Social Development Centre in Alexander First Nation will be retrofitted to become a greener building thanks to the investment of over $678,000 from the federal government.
Announced by Minister Sean Fraser, and Alexander First Nation Tribal Administrator, Colette Arcand, the Centre will receive energy efficient upgrades to help provide a better, more sustainable gathering space and achieve the sustainability goals of the community.
A thriving economy needs strategic investments in green infrastructure to build a sustainable future with access to good jobs for Canadians, while limiting impacts on the local environment.
The Alexander First Nation's Social Development Centre provides services and assistance to community members including access to skills development, employment opportunities, and training to promote independence and strengthen families.
Funding will support the expansion of its current solar energy system, allowing the centre to generate its own energy, reduce emissions, and increase community resilience. The centre will also benefit from upgrades to its heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, the electrical system, the lighting system, and renovations to the building's envelope including doors and roof insulation.
Once complete, these improvements are expected to reduce the facility's energy consumption by almost 50% and greenhouse gas emissions by 76 tonnes annually. This work will enable the centre to continue to provide an inclusive space where community members can gather and staff can carry out essential social programming and services, while improving its energy efficiency.
By continuing to work closely with its partners across Canada, the federal government is ensuring that Canadians have access to infrastructure that can connect them to jobs, services, amenities, and their communities at large.
