Pictured above: The Northern store in Attawapiskat, 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 Attawapiskat First Nation, ON, are a testament to our commitment.

Located at the mouth of the Attawapiskat River on James Bay, the Attawapiskat community has developed deep ties to the surrounding lands in its efforts to continue its traditional land-based lifestyle. Many of its 1,501 residents (according to Statistics Canada’s 2016 Census) today enjoy regular caribou and goose hunts between fishing and trapping activities surrounding the region, as both a cultural practice as well as a means of securing food to eat.

While some community members use the English language, most are fluent in Cree as well as a variety of Indigenous dialects, highlighting the diverse linguistic skills of the Attawapiskat community.

Attawapiskat First Nation is normally accessible year-round through its airport with connected flights to Moosonee 160 km to the north and Timmins 500 km to the south. But during the winter, Attawapiskat First Nation works closely with organizations in Fort Albany and Kashechewan as co-owners of the Kimesskanemenow LP, which oversees the seasonal construction and maintenance of the James Bay Winter Road. Kimesskanemenow is Cree for “our road”, and emphasizes the value each of these communities place on collaboration.

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 Attawapiskat, with our Northern store employing 32 individuals. Our commitment to local talent is demonstrated through our workforce consisting of 84% Indigenous employees.*

2. Capital Investment: Northern has made a $2,321,963 capital investment in the Attawapiskat store over a 10-year period.*

3. Annual Economic Impact: Northern is making a positive impact in Attawapiskat, with $1,794,449 annual economic impact in the community.*

Attawapiskat Northern Store Manager, Samantha Capson, and her team are significant community supporters.

“The community of Attawapiskat has seen and overcome many obstacles over the last few years,” says Capson. “But their resilience to overcome and support each other, not only as a community but as a family, is unstoppable and heartfelt. All of our team members should be proud of their incredible roles that they hold in supporting their community on a daily basis. To be part of the Attawapiskat team and community is an experience that everyone should have the opportunity to have.”

*For the year ending 2020