August 8, 2026
Manitoba Government Provides $100,000 to St. John the Baptist Ukrainian Catholic Church
– – –Investment Will Protect Historic Landmark and Strengthen Rural Community Life: Simard
The Manitoba government is providing $100,000 through the From the Ground Up – Safe Healthy Communities for ALL program to support St. John the Baptist Ukrainian Catholic Church in Fork River, ensuring the long‑term stability of the community’s spiritual gathering place, Municipal and Northern Relations Minister Glen Simard announced today.
“This parish is a cornerstone of community life in Fork River and the surrounding region,” said Simard. “Our government is proud to support the dedicated volunteers and families who are working tirelessly to preserve this historic gathering place. This investment will help ensure the church remains safe, stable and welcoming for generations to come.”
“St. John the Baptist Ukrainian Catholic Church has served as a cultural and spiritual anchor in Fork River since 1938, providing services not only to local residents but also to families from Rorketon, Ethelbert, Winnipegosis and Dauphin,” said Agriculture Minister Ron Kostyshyn, who attended the church’s annual Zabava today. “The church remains a vital hub for worship, community connection and cultural preservation. The legacy of Ukrainian families who worked tirelessly to preserve our rich traditions deserves to be recognized and celebrated.”
The parish has already demonstrated a commitment to preserving its heritage, the ministers noted. Seniors in the community recently reviewed decades of handwritten Ukrainian records to identify unmarked graves, leading to the installation of new aluminum signage and a weatherproof cemetery map. These efforts ensure that the history of the parish and its families is honoured and accessible.
“Our community may be small, but our dedication is immense. I am extremely proud of the community who rallied to help support this important project,” said Hope Toporowski, secretary-treasurer, St. John the Baptist Ukrainian Catholic Church. “This support from the Manitoba government gives us hope and ensures that our church, gathering place, history and future will remain standing strong.”
The From the Ground Up – Safe Healthy Communities for ALL program provides up to $100,000 to help non‑profits, municipalities and northern affairs councils fund community revitalization, youth programs and capital improvements that strengthen local infrastructure and support vibrant community life.
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