The federal government says it is providing up to $696,000 for a two-year project to upgrade food infrastructure in Nahanni Butte.
The Naha Dehe Development Corporation – the economic development arm of the Nahanni Butte Dene Band – is contributing $174,000 to the project.
According to a Wednesday press release, the corporation plans to buy a refrigerated truck that will help the community’s general store to transport fewer, larger shipments of fresh produce.
Chief Steve Vital said in a statement that residents are reliant on the general store for food, particularly as the community is isolated for two and a half months a year due to the lack of a bridge or all-season road.
“Investment into the refrigerated truck will help us to get food supplies properly delivered to the community while being economical,” he said.
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The corporation also plans to invest in a food truck, a first for the community.
“The purchase of a food truck will act as a restaurant-on-wheels, being the first full-fledged food joint in the community to cater to the needs of the residents, workers, and tourists alike,” Vital said.
He said the food truck will support “local events, festivals, and gatherings, fostering a sense of community while also contributing to the local economic development.”
The federal funding comes from CanNor’s Inclusive Diversification and Economic Advancement in the North program.
“Northern communities need northern solutions. Addressing food security in remote NWT communities requires targeted investments in infrastructure and transportation systems,” NWT MP Michael McLeod was quoted as saying.
