Animakee Wa Zhing #37 has a traditional territory and reserve lands that are located on the shores of Lake of the Woods in the rural northwest corner of Ontario.
Story of the Community
Animakee Wa Zhing #37 consists of two geographically distinct communities that have been amalgamated under one government since 1915. The two communities are approximately 65 km apart; one being water-access only on a series of islands near Windigo Island (originally known as Indian Band #37) in a remote portion of Lake of the Woods, while the other (originally known as Indian Band #34) is located near the small town of Sioux Narrows, ON at Regina Bay.
In summer months, residents of Windigo Island park their cars in Minnesota (the southern half of Lake of the Woods is located in Minnesota, U.S.) and boat to their community. In the winter, an ice road connects Windigo Island to Kenora, ON.
What We Do
Animakee Wa Zhing delivers Education, Health, Housing, Infrastructure, Operations, Child and Family Advocacy, Ontario Works, Mental Health and Addictions Counselling services, and General Community Services.
Community Statement
The First Nation is committed to a healthy, sustainable, and prosperous future for our members. We believe that the foundation for this future is based on quality education; protection of land, water, and resources; and meaningful career opportunities in our traditional territory.