CFGB Grants $25,000 to Support Noongwa Wellness

Community Foundation Grey Bruce Grants $25,000 to Support Noongwa Wellness in Neyaashiinigmiing

OWEN SOUND, ON – Community Foundation Grey Bruce (CFGB) is pleased to announce a $25,000 grant to Noongwa Wellness, an Indigenous-led family medicine and wellness centre being established in Neyaashiinigmiing by Noongwa Gamig Incorporated. The funding comes from CFGB's Next25 Fund, Jessie Calder Family Fund, and Eva Leflar Donor Advised Fund. The grant will support the development of Noongwa Wellness's interim clinic and site improvements, allowing culturally safe, community-based healthcare services to begin while plans for a permanent facility continue.

Noongwa Wellness was created to address the need for accessible, culturally grounded primary healthcare in the community. Guided by Anishinaabe values and land-based design, the centre will provide holistic, trauma-informed care in a welcoming environment rooted in culture, community, and wellness.

"For many Indigenous families, accessing primary healthcare has meant travelling off reserve," said Dr. Elisa Levi, Family Physician, Noongwa Wellness. "This support from Community Foundation Grey Bruce helps us provide care now while building toward our long-term vision of Indigenous-owned healthcare that reflects community priorities and Anishinaabe ways of knowing and healing."

As planning continues for the permanent facility, Noongwa Wellness is launching services through an interim clinic housed in a tiny clinic structure recently expanded with a new vestibule. The project also includes a covered outdoor gathering space that will support culturally based wellness activities.

"Community Foundation Grey Bruce is proud to support projects that strengthen communities and improve access to essential services," said Stuart Reid, Executive Director of Community Foundation Grey Bruce. "Noongwa Wellness is an important investment in Indigenous health and wellness, ensuring care is accessible, culturally safe, and community driven. We are honoured to support this initiative through the Next25 Fund, Jessie Calder Family Fund, and the Eva Leflar Donor Advised Fund."

The project builds on an early contribution from Bruce Power and growing support from partners who recognize the importance of Indigenous-led healthcare solutions in Grey Bruce. When complete, Noongwa Wellness will provide culturally safe, holistic primary healthcare services that improve access to care, strengthen community wellness, and support healthier futures for generations to come.

To learn more about the permanent site or to donate to support the project, contact info@noongwa.ca.