The Acadian Centre in Chéticamp

Le Centre Acadien still has its place in the Acadian community of Chéticamp. That was the main message to surface during a special meeting of parishioners held on Sunday January 27. Organized by the Parish Council, the meeting was held to inform the population about present conditions and the future of the Acadian Centre.

Built in 1961, Le Centre Acadien is presently experiencing some serious financial difficulties. Saint Peter’s Parish in Chéticamp has owned and administered the Centre since its opening. The Centre is finding it increasingly difficult to meet its financial obligations. Last year, maintenance expenses managed to get paid, but the situation this year is much more precarious.

Le Centre Acadien has a large hall able to accomodate as many as 300 people. In the past, the hall was much used for receptions, dances, shows, bingos and other community acitivities. The Centre also has four bowing alleys. As elsewhere in rural areas, the population has greatly diminished in recent years and today we can find several other meeting places in the community.

The building urgently requires important renovations and repairs. The roof leaks and the ceiling of the great hall must soon be redone. The heating system must also be looked at and the kitchen renovated.

In addition, we learned that last year, plans were drawn up for the construction of a new community hall for Chéticamp. However, there is great difficulty in finding the funding necessary for much needed repairs or new construction. For two years now, the Centre has been registered with the province as the Community Emergency Centre.

Parishioners at the meeting decided to work together to try and save their Centre Acadien. Many volunteered their services to help with fundraising activities. It was also decided that the mission of Le Centre Acadien has to be more clearly defined.