The Aboriginal Mother Centre Society’s (AMCS) weekly BBQ has been providing food and care to elders for over 15 years.
The AMCS supports Indigenous families across communities, providing housing for mothers and their children, as well as supplying food bags for Elders.
Every other Monday, the AMCS welcomes the public to purchase grilled food. The proceeds from the fundraiser support Elders with food bags and other needs. Shirley Longpre has been a part of the AMCS for many years. She says they are doing this because many Elders rely on the program, as they live alone or are on a pension. A food bag usually consists of fresh fruit and vegetables, along with some canned goods and meat. It is important for AMCS to create a space for Elders to gather, said Shirley.
Susan Kane, a community Elder, has been coming to AMCS for over a decade. She said the program keeps her going, staying inspired and healthy. “I’ve been coming for 15 years, and it’s just been a beautiful experience, what they’re doing for the people, for the elders here.”
Kane added that Elders must communicate with their people and get together to keep their minds active.
AMCS helps about 25 to 30 elders. They play games like bingo and do karaoke. Recently, it has become possible for Elders to enjoy outings, such as short trips to Chilliwack or Squamish.
“I don’t know what I’d be doing if I weren’t here. I have been here over 20 years, it’s like my second home,” said Longpre.
Otelo Angulo explained that he participates in the fundraiser because when people buy in restaurants, they usually help benefit local businesses. It’s in the community anyway, but here the environment is like family for him. “We can see the food that is prepared fresh, and in a delicious way.” Not only for charity but also to learn from the culture. Angulo said he loves to meet people with different life backgrounds.
The need is growing, shared Longpre, now more elders are joining the AMCS. The food program’s funding was not supposed to exceed 25 food bags, but they are now providing 27. “It’s working out so far.”
– Lisa Kovtun, U Multicultural
