Whitesand First Nation is situated on the northwest shore of Lake Nipigon, close to Mount St. John, and is located within the Robinson Superior Treaty area.

Due to high water levels causing erosion of the shoreline and the flooding of houses in 1942, many Whitesand community members settled along the Canadian National Railway line. A large portion of these settlements took place in Armstrong, Ontario. Therefore, when a new reserve was being negotiated, Whitesand was located immediately north of Armstrong.

The mother tongue of Whitesand is Ojibway, but many of the residents also speak English.

Recognizing economic opportunity on their traditional lands, Whitesand First Nation established Sagatay Economic Development LP in 2010, fostering workforce development and future growth “with our People, for our People.”

Education is a priority for Whitesand. While primary school students attend Armstrong Public School, secondary students travel to Thunder Bay with support from the Board Home Program, ensuring safe accommodation and travel. Since 1995, the community has operated its own post-secondary program to support lifelong learning.

The recently completed 10,000 sq. ft. community centre exemplifies Whitesand’s investment in its people, featuring community kitchens, health services, career training facilities, offices, and a gymnasium to support well-being and development