Project Helps Train Sachigo Lake Youth
Sachigo Lake First Nation – It will be an amazing Christmas for a Sachigo Lake First Nation family as they will move into a new home. The new home has been built as a result of the community’s revenue sharing agreement with North Star Air.
Sachigo Lake’s Band Council made the decision to invest in youth in the community and train young people in building the new home. That led to employment for youth as they trained in construction, plumbing, electrical and all the skills needed to build a home.
The agreement Sachigo Lake has forged with North Star Air has made the program possible, and is an excellent example of how a win-win situation can be made with business and a First Nation. The growing focus and emphasize is building partnerships and relationships to create a prosperous environment that represents the best interest of the people that is reliant on the responsibility and accountability of leadership. Another growing emphasis is partnering with an airline that brings forth cost-effective air transportation solutions for reliable delivery of good and services and contributes to economic growth to attract more opportunities from emerging markets.
The housing project is a part of a growing effort in Sachigo Lake, made possible by the Letter of Understanding signed several years ago with North Star Air, with a goal to generate short and long term socio-economic development opportunities, gain financial benefits back to the community and provide increased air transportation services and options to their community members.
Chief Titus Tait says that the long term goal is for the young people in Sachigo Lake to take over the jobs in the community including road maintenance, housing, and vehicle mechanical repairs.
“For years now, we have seen companies come and go. They have lined their pockets and we have got nothing back. With the Letter of Understanding with North Star Air we are seeing the benefits. We have the product right here from the agreement,” says Chief Titus Tait.
North Star Air President and CEO Frank Kelner states, “We will continue to keep focused on our customers by continuing to provide them with valued solutions, safe and affordable services and stand by our commitment to give back financially to the partner communities and any community who wishes to participate in our revenue sharing and rebate agreements. So far we have given back over $1 million to our partner communities.”
The revenue sharing agreement between North Star Air and their partner communities are set up to assist the First Nations in setting a path for success. The partner communities do not have to invest increasingly scarce funds into the airline, but rather reap revenues from the passengers, charter, and cargo shipments into their community.
MaryEllen Thomas, of North Star Air comments that “We are proud and committed to play an active role in making a positive difference in our communities. It is important for us to continue to give back to our communities. Thank-you Sachigo Lake and all our partner communities for your ongoing support!”
North Star Air also delivered the revenue sharing payment to Bearskin Lake First Nation last week.
About Sachigo Lake
Sachigo Lake has a registered population of 879 people. The First Nation is part of Windigo First Nation Council with it primary affiliation to Nishnawbe-Aski Nation. The community is located approximately 425 kilometers north of Sioux Lookout. Access to Sachigo Lake is provided by a year round airport which is operated by the Ontario Ministry of Transportation and Communication. Regular air service is available to the regional centers of Sioux Lookout, Thunder Bay and Winnipeg. Sachigo Lake airport is located approximately 2.8 kilometers to the main community. Road access between the airport and Sachigo Lake is by one gravel, winter road.
About North Star Air
Beginning in 1997 as a floatplane service North Star Air has steadily evolved its service capabilities and transformed its fleet. In 2012, new ownership was acquired, today, North Star Air is one of the leading Northern Ontario full-service airlines. As a leading provider of charter, passenger and freight/cargo services they make it their passion and commitment to safety, affordability and reliability. Their mission is to connect Northern Ontario communities and their vision is to provide the best possible customer experience throughout their entire journey. Integrity is at the cornerstone of their core values as they continue to drive for excellence.
