June 16, 2014 – Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario – Department of Canadian Heritage

The Government of Canada has announced an investment of $60,000 over 2 years under the Community Life component of the Development of Official-Language Communities Program to support the annual programming of the Centre francophone de Sault-Sainte-Marie (CFSSM). This community centre organizes a range of cultural and social activities to give Francophones in the Sault Ste. Marie area the opportunity to experience and appreciate Ontario’s Francophone culture and heritage.

Bryan Hayes, Member of Parliament (Sault Ste. Marie), made the announcement today on behalf of the Honourable Shelly Glover, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.

Quick Facts

• The CFSSM was founded in 1979 to give area Francophones the means to preserve and enrich the French language and the cultural life of the community.
• The French presence in the Sault Ste. Marie area dates back to the 17th century, with explorer Étienne Brûlé’s travels through the area in 1623.

Quotes

“Our Government is proud to contribute to the success of Ontario’s Francophone communities. By investing in Canada’s official languages, an integral part of our history and identity as a country, our Government is enriching the quality of life of all Canadians.”

—The Honourable Shelly Glover, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages

“Many organizations play a crucial role in the development of Ontario’s Francophone communities. In supporting the CFSSM, we are working to ensure that official-language minority communities can thrive and participate fully in Canadian society.”

—Bryan Hayes, Member of Parliament (Sault Ste. Marie)

“We are very grateful for the financial support provided by Canadian Heritage. This contribution will help us to promote and celebrate our Francophone culture. The activities organized by the Centre francophone de Sault-Ste-Marie give residents and visitors wonderful opportunities to enjoy the rich Francophone culture in this part of Ontario. Francophones in Sault Ste. Marie are proud and want to share their pride with everyone.”

—Suzanne Salituri, President, Centre francophone de Sault-Ste-Marie