An architectural rending of what could become a Child and Family Services administration building on Sturgeon Lake First Nation. (Facebook/Sturgeon Lake FN)

By Susan McNeil

Federal funding

Sturgeon Lake announces progress on new Child and Family Services building

Jan 20, 2026 | 1:20 PM

A major milestone in Sturgeon Lake First Nations’ effort to improve child and family services in their community has been reached, band leadership said yesterday in an online announcement.

Conditional approval from Indigenous Services Canada has been given for a new administrative building that is planned to be built near the school.

“This funding is an important step forward for Sturgeon Lake First Nation,” said Chief Christine Longjohn.

“Our Child and Family Services team does complex and demanding work. A purpose-built facility will allow them to provide care and support in a space that respects privacy, safety and the needs of our families.”

Funding will be released over a three-year span, with just under $7 million dispersed this year, $10 million in 2026-27 and $5.7 million the following year.

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Approval is based on pre-tender construction estimates and will be finalized once the tender is completed and a contractor chosen.

The goal is create more equitable access to child and family services with a building that allows the full scope of programming. Their current building does not have enough space for offices, support areas and program specific environments.

When they selected the proposed site, consideration was given to the need for privacy such as the nearby trees.

The new building will include varying levels of privacy and security depending on what is needed, and the design will reflect cultural elements and traditional practices of Cree history.

The facility is intended to support a healthy and resilient community by bringing programs, resources and supports together in one location. It is also designed with the future in mind, supporting the personal, educational and professional development of Indigenous youth.

The funding agreement between ISC and Sturgeon Lake will be amended once tender numbers are confirmed at which point construction will begin.

Band leadership said that updates will be provided as they become available.

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susan.mcneil@pattisonmedia.com