The International Grenfell Association (IGA) is proud to support the NunaKatiget Inuit Community Corporation (NICC) in its mission to preserve and promote Inuit culture and traditions in the Upper Lake Melville region of Labrador. Since its establishment in 2006, the NICC has provided essential programs and services to Nunatsiavut Beneficiaries, with a particular focus on Inuit Elders and youth in Happy Valley-Goose Bay and Mud Lake.
The IGA recently contributed funding to support NICC’s efforts in offering traditional craft and cooking classes, as well as Inuktitut language lessons for both youth and adults. These programs aim to preserve the cultural heritage of the Inuit people by fostering connections between generations and passing down knowledge and skills.
(L-R) Participants Sharon Edmunds, Eileen Lockyer, Hilda Burry, Myrtle Banfield, Brenda Colbourne (instructor) and Irene Burden
One key component of this program is the Max Winters Memorial Community Freezer, which provides traditional Inuit foods such as salmon, arctic char, moose, and root vegetables to Elders ages 60 and over and individuals with disabilities. Approximately 150 to 180 families rely on the freezer each month, making it a cornerstone of food security and cultural preservation in the region. The IGA’s funding has helped NICC cover rising costs for staple items like corned cod and salmon, ensuring that the freezer remains well-stocked and accessible to those who need it most.
Another highlight of the NICC’s programming is traditional craft classes, where youth and adults learn skills such as making sealskin ornaments, boots, and parkas, as well as knitting and beading. These classes not only teach practical skills but also celebrate Inuit craftsmanship and creativity, empowering participants to take pride in their cultural identity.
The Inuktitut language classes are another vital element of this project, aimed at increasing fluency among both youth and adults. By engaging Inuit Elders as instructors, these classes help ensure the survival of the Inuit language. Through periodic evaluations, exercises, and conversational practice, participants build their understanding and appreciation of Inuktitut.
Thanks to the IGA’s support, the NICC has been able to expand these impactful programs, enriching the lives of Nunatsiavut Beneficiaries and strengthening community ties. The funding has made it possible for more people to access traditional foods, crafts, and language instruction, ensuring that the culture and traditions of the Inuit continue to thrive for future generations.
The IGA is honored to contribute to programs like those led by the NICC, which illustrates the power of community-driven efforts to preserve cultural heritage and support sustainable growth.
