Pikangikum
Canadian community pushed to despair
The fight for the pikangikum
Pikangikum is one of the largest first nation communities in Northern Ontario with the highest on reserve population with, 2,300. An estimated 75% of the population is under 25 years of age. Pikangikum is improvised, isolated community where basic messes kites are absence. Poverty, crowded substandard housing, gainful employment, food and water security are daily challenges. Struggling to keep warm the Pikangikum people have to travel far distances just to get fresh water to drink and water to shower with.
Distressed youth
Huge tragedies occurring at times-with up to six kids passing away in a week. It is a devestating and tragic loss for anyone losing a deared loved one. Seeing improvements are difficult to see when the people of this community are living in poor conditions. Alchohol and drug abuse is a not surprising due to the fact of the unjust conditions.
Community struggle
Being a large community has an impact on the infrastructure, programs, and services available. Community programs are very much under resourced compromising activities and hobbies. As a result Pikangikum faces higher crime rates, alcohol and drug abuse, suicides, and medical needs.
Project Journey in aid of Pikangikum
Police forces including OPP, the National crime prevention centre and the community of Pikangikum have come together and have raised close to 2.4 million towards the creation of project journey. Project Journey is a program to help eliminate crime in Pikangikum youth citizens. Project Journey is broken into four main components: Family, help create positive vibes with loved ones. Community service: helping in the creation of new activities including playgrounds. The police Activity Leauge will allow officers to share special skills in police work. And lastly, Arts and Culture will allow kids to show their talents and engage themselves with culture and nature.
Accessibility
Pikangikum is accessible by vehicles on the Winter road, boats when accessible, and planes. However, Year round road and trains are not accessible as a transportation towards the Pikangikum Nation. Emergency roads are currently being constructed to avoid using boats and for a more convenient way of transportation.
Weather condition
The snowy terrain makes it difficult for the residence to travel though the rough conditions.
Devastating Fire
House fire kills 9 people, including 3 children. It was believed to be members of the same family. ( see video for more details)
Living Condition
Pikangikum community lives through tough way of living through the poor constructed housing.
Address
Website: www.whitefeatherforest.com
Location: 323 Po Box
Phone: 807 773 5578
Pikangikum First Nation fire kills 3 children, 6 adults