THUNDER BAY – A partnership that furthers support for Indigenous relations initiatives was announced on Tuesday.
CN Railway unveiled an investment of $30,000 for the Cinema 5 Skatepark, which provides a safe and inclusive space for youth while promoting cultural diversity and fostering positive mental health.
“This funding will enable us to continue to provide programs for kids who wouldn't necessarily have the opportunity to maybe participate in these things,” said Sterling Downey, a board member of Cinema 5 Skatepark.
“We strive to give the youth the foundation and values that they need to bring into the rest of their lives.
“We see, especially this week with the snow storms, how important this indoor skate park is. Kids would not be able to skateboard at this time of year if it wasn't for this facility. It’s great to have this place where kids can go to practice their sport while being part of the community and in a positive environment," said Downey, a Montreal city councillor and former deputy mayor.
“Our involvement with the Cinema Five Skate Park is quite unique,” added Jennifer Jerome, CN Rail’s Indigenous relations manager.
“Not just financially, but just supporting the venture overall is one of our core pillars at CN. We’re proud to help continue this safe space for all youth in Thunder Bay.”
The funding will be specifically for the Indigenous youth outreach program.
