The oldest church in Ontario needs some repair work and the federal government is providing money to make it happen.

MP Phil McColeman and representatives from Parks Canada on Saturday announced more than $70,000 for stabilization work at Her Majesty’s Royal Chapel of the Mohawks.

“This has been a treasured part of our community for well over a century,” McColeman said. “This investment means that this important landmark will continue to provide spiritual support and historical significance to our region.”

The money is coming from a Parks Canada cost-sharing program as part of the federal government’s economic action plan.

Parks Canada will pick up 50 per cent of the tab for about $146,500 worth of repairs, which will shore up the frame of the 225-year-old building.

Jim Sutton, chair of the Mohawk Chapel committee, said the tops of the structure's walls are starting to bow and the roof is starting to curve.

“We are going to stabilize it with braces,” Sutton said.

The repairs will also include some floor stabilization and basement remodelling.

Six Nations elected band council Chief Bill Montour expressed thanks on behalf of Six Nations.

“Canada’s economic action plan has been a real boon,” he said. “This is a wonderful project to refurbish this old church, an icon of the Six Nations people.”