Wawa-news.com Local and Regional News
The global landscape is shifting, and the Government of Canada is focused on what we can control by protecting our sovereignty, building our prosperity, and strengthening our economic resilience. Rural communities are central to that effort. Rural economies are a cornerstone of Canada’s national economy, and local knowledge is often critical to understanding the needs and opportunities on the ground.
Terry Sheehan, Member of Parliament for Sault Ste. Marie—Algoma, and Tara Anderson Hart, Mayor of the Township of White River, today announced an investment of $241,695 to support the community in hiring an economic development officer (EDO) for a three-year period. Funding is provided by the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario (FedNor).
This FedNor investment will allow White River to hire an EDO to lead projects that grow investment and tourism in the community and surrounding areas. The EDO will help create and advance tourism plans, prepare materials to attract investors, work with local businesses to identify challenges and opportunities, and address other community needs including housing and labour force challenges.
The announcement was made at the 38th Winnie’s Hometown Festival in White River. The annual festival is a major tourism draw for the community, as the real bear cub that inspired the Winnie-the-Pooh character was from community. This year, the town is celebrating the 100th anniversary of the famous children’s book series by author A. A. Milne.
With this support in place, White River will be equipped to turn local knowledge into action. That growth strengthens both the region and the country, so no community gets left behind.
“Economic development in rural communities requires specific local knowledge and awareness. The Algoma region is full of communities and people with the ideas and ability to drive our region into a thriving future, and this investment will help give them the exact support they need to make it reality. These FedNor funds will mean real growth for the businesses of White River and surrounding communities, and will help to maintain the high quality of life experienced every day in Algoma.” – Terry Sheehan, Member of Parliament for Sault Ste. Marie—Algoma
“Northern Ontario communities know their own strengths and their own priorities. This support is about giving them the tools to act on that knowledge. By investing in local solutions, we are building a stronger region and a stronger Canada, one community at a time.” – The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for FedNor
“White River might be a community that was established by the railway and is now best known as the birthplace of Winnie the Pooh, but we are also a place of great culture, adventure, and opportunity. Thanks to FedNor’s support, we will be able to better capitalize on our diverse offerings to drive growth and prosperity for our residents and neighbours. This economic development officer position will help provide not just the tools to get things done, but also the clearest information to ensure we are taking the best steps possible.” – Tara Anderson Hart, Mayor, Township of White River.
- White River receives funding for Economic Development Officer - August 15, 2026
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