Pictured above: Raffle winners Nelson Nothing (back row, left) and his daughter, Lorilei, receiving an ATV they won from Northern, presented by Ed Mohimi, Bearskin Lake Northern Store Manager (far left), and Mitchell Abbott, Bearskin Lake Northern Grocery Manager.

Community members in Bearskin Lake, ON, were treated to a fun-filled day of games and prizes on July 17 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of National Indigenous Peoples Day.

Bearskin Lake First Nation organized various giveaways to commemorate the occasion while giving residents the opportunity to socialize after a long period of rigorous COVID-19 protocols and required isolation. With a turnout of nearly 600 people, it was one of the biggest events of the year, where each person was able to reconnect with their neighbors and friends through community dice games, complementary barbeques and exciting raffles.

The celebrations were also meant to honour the rich heritage of Indigenous groups everywhere in Canada. By taking the day as an opportunity to bring everyone together, Bearskin Lake First Nation ensured that the day was a memorable learning experience that also put a smile on everyone's face.

Several raffles were held throughout the day, but the community was most excited with the raffle for the grand prize; a brand new, 4-wheeler 2021 Kodiak ATV provided by Bearskin Lake Northern store.

“We are committed to serving our community, especially during these difficult times,” says Ed Mohimi, Bearskin Lake Northern Manager. “Our customers have been supporting us by coming into our stores and we’re just as eager to give back in any way we can.”