Pictured above: The Northern store in Sachigo Lake, ON
Our Community Promise
The North West Company Inc. is proud of the active role we play within the communities we serve, striving to make a positive, progressive difference. Our contributions within the community of Sachigo Lake First Nation, ON, are a testament to our commitment.
The Sachigo Lake community is an Oji-Cree First Nation in Unorganized Kenora District comprising three reserve areas in Northwestern Ontario. The community is located on Sachigo Lake and is part of the Sachigo River system and Hudson Bay Drainage Basin.
Sachigo Lake is home to 514 residents (according to Statistics Canada as per the 2016 census) who are mainly First Nations. The two major languages spoken in the community are Oji-Cree and English. Several events are held each year to promote social activities within the community, including the Sachigo Lake First Nation Ice Fishing Derby, community feasts and hunts.
Sachigo Lake is a remote community accessible only by air and a winter road. The Sachigo Lake Airport is operated year-round and is 2.8 km north of the community, while the winter road – which extends for about 34 km across the lake running north-east from Muskrat Dam to Sachigo Lake First Nation – is only accessible from mid-January until the spring thaw. Sachigo Lake is located 425 km north of Sioux Lookout, which is the nearest major town.
Did you know?
North West is proud of the positive impact we have on the community.
1. Employment: We are one of the most prominent employers in Sachigo Lake, with our Northern store employing 8 individuals. Our commitment to local talent is demonstrated through our workforce consisting of 63% Indigenous employees.*
2. Capital Investment: Northern has made a $433,456 capital investment in the Sachigo Lake store over a 10-year period.*
3. Annual Economic Impact: Northern is making a positive impact in Sachigo Lake, with a $631,414 annual economic impact in the community.*
Sachigo Lake Northern Store Manager Craig Weaver and his team are significant community supporters.
“This community has been very welcoming from the very beginning. We have not been here very long, but we are enjoying the experience so far!” shared Craig.
*For the year ending 2020