The provincial government is aiding in an upgrade to Knox United Church in Emo.

The church is doing renovations to its kitchen.

A grant from the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund of $153,000 will assist in purchasing new appliances, countertops and cupboards.

Northern Development Minister Greg Rickford announced the news during a visit to the church on Thursday.

“The Emo Knox United Church is an important hub for the community, and by upgrading and expanding the kitchen area, our government is making a real difference in the lives of local families and community members,” says Rickford in a statement.

The church frequently holds community Christmas dinners for those in need, caters luncheons for memorial services, hosts community breakfast programs, and runs a community soup-to-go event.

“Over the past few years, we have been planning diligently to bring our underutilized building back to life. Knox church had been a hub of activity in Emo’s past, but over time, the aging structure has become outdated and inefficient. We are especially excited to see the tiny old kitchen expanded to a state-of-the-art facility,” states church officials.

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