Halifax Port Authority contributes $200,000 to new Wije’winen Centre, strengthening opportunities for cultural connection
Support comes as the Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Society advances major fundraising efforts
Photo - Pam Glode-Desrochers and Fulvio Fracassi with model rendering of the new Wije’winen Centre currently under construction
Render: by Fathom Studio – (photo credits: Kelly Clark)
(Kjipuktuk – Halifax) – December 1, 2025 – The Halifax Port Authority is investing $200,000 in the new Wije’winen Centre, the future permanent home of the Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Society, strengthening support for nearly 8,000 Indigenous community members living in Kjipuktuk/ Halifax and enhancing collaborative cultural programming in the largest urban core in Mi’kma’ki.
Wije’winen – which means “Come with us” in Mi’kmaq – is the guiding spirit behind the new purpose-built, more than 75,000 sq. ft. community hub, which will offer culturally grounded programs and wrap-around services when it opens in 2027. Demand for the Centre’s services has rapidly grown and operations are now spread across several sites; the new facility will provide a centralized home for the Centre’s programs. Since its founding in 1972, the organization has moved three times, reflecting the urgent need for a stable, permanent location.
Today, the Friendship Centre delivers dozens of programs, including early childhood education, housing and homelessness support, employment and language training, harm reduction and healing services, and an Indigenous-led Health Centre. Over the past 15 years, the organization has expanded from eight support programs to more than 70, and its staff has grown from about 20 to over 200 employees. Kjipuktuk is now home to the largest and fastest-growing Indigenous population in Mi’kma’ki, increasing demand for culturally informed services and community space.
The Halifax Port Authority and the Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Society have built a meaningful partnership in recent years through involvement in the Port’s Cruise Welcome Program and participation in community days. As the new Wije’winen Centre opens, both organizations—along with regional tourism partners—will explore opportunities to expand cultural programming, including welcoming cruise visitors to the Centre during the season. This aligns with the Friendship Centre’s newly developed Tourism Strategy, created with Discover Halifax and other community partners, to strengthen cultural tourism offerings grounded in Mi’kmaq knowledge, language, and experience.
Pam Glode-Desrochers, Executive Director of the Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Society, said the Port’s contribution represents a commitment to shared values and community impact. “This investment from the Halifax Port Authority helps ensure that urban Indigenous people have a permanent, culturally safe place to access the programs and support. As we advance our new Tourism Strategy with Discover Halifax and other partners, we also have a powerful opportunity to share Mi’kmaq culture with people from around the world. The Wije’winen Centre will finally give our community the stable, welcoming home it has needed for generations. We are grateful for partners who believe in this vision and walk alongside us.”
Fulvio Fracassi, President & CEO of the Halifax Port Authority, said the organization is proud to deepen its relationship with the Society and the Friendship Centre. “The Halifax Port Authority is pleased to support the Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Centre with a contribution toward the new Wije’winen Centre. This investment reflects our commitment to engagement and partnership here in Kjipuktuk, supporting the sharing, listening and learning that will take place at the Centre. Our congratulations to everyone involved.”
The Halifax Port Authority investment will support construction and community space development within the Centre, enabling expanded programming and improved access to services for thousands of Indigenous families, youth, Elders, and community members. With Giving Tuesday taking place this week, the Society hopes this contribution will inspire others across Kjipuktuk/Halifax to support the Centre as it enters its final phase of fundraising for both the new building and the programs that sustain community well-being year-round.
About the Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Society
The Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Society is a registered charity and the operator of the Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Centre and its more than 70 programs supporting urban Indigenous peoples in Kjipuktuk/Halifax. For over 50 years, the Society has worked closely with community partners, including organizations such as the Halifax Port Authority—to strengthen cultural programming, expand services, and support the development of the new Wije’winen Centre. As the largest Friendship Centre in Atlantic Canada, the Society serves community members from all 13 Mi’kmaw communities and thousands of Indigenous peoples who now call Kjipuktuk home. Information on how to support the new centre is available online and donations can be made directly at: https://wijewinen.com/donate.
About the Port of Halifax
The Port of Halifax connects Canada to the world, creating prosperity for our communities. Through our leading international gateway, we deliver safe, efficient, resilient and sustainable operations for shipping, cargo, and cruise customers. To learn more, visit www.porthalifax.ca.
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Contacts:
Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Centre
Corinne MacLellan - Corinnemaclellan@outlook.com
(902) 209-3234
Halifax Port Authority
Lori MacLean - lmaclean@porthalifax.ca
(902) 209-7170