The multicultural potluck held at Stage Coach Park on Boyne Avenue in Morris was a go on Wednesday.
Organizers put out the tables, spread the meal fixings, and started the barbecue as dark clouds from the north threatened to deliver another postponement.
Regional Connections Immigrant Services hosted the potluck. It was an event designed to give newcomers the opportunity to connect and integrate into the community.
“At Regional Connections, we support newcomers who come from all over the world, bringing with them their skills and experience, which in turn strengthens and grows our communities,” explained settlement worker Destiny Klassen. “We are happy to organize community connection events in these communities to provide newcomers the opportunity to connect and integrate into the community. We want immigrants to know that they are welcome.”
The Pembina Valley Local Immigration Partnership also joined the party to welcome newcomers to the region. They brought along a picture frame prop to capture photos ahead of the national Welcome Week campaign next month.
”What makes someone feel welcome in a community? We try to understand what that means for people from other cultures,” explained PVLIP coordinator Elaine Burton-Saindon. “Events like this connect cultures and communities.”
Chavda Nitya was in attendance to get to know others in the community.
“We are from India,” Nitya said. “My parents moved to Canada for education for me and my brother. We came this evening to meet people.
“Canada is friendly. We have been here for three years. Regional Connections helped my dad find a job. We hope to network with other people and meet new immigrants to learn their stories.”
The Morris Bigway hot dog cart was on site roasting jumbo hot dogs and distributing cold drinks. As people joined the event, they brought with them their choice of meal for a potluck call. Several dumpling-filled savory dishes and sauces were on offer to sample.
Joan van der Linke was also on hand with Miss Daisy, her canopied covered trishaw cycle, and some fresh bread as door prizes.
Besides food and trishaw rides, there was volleyball and other games. Music from different cultures played on the sound system while people mingled.
“Tonight we saw more than 60 people from many different countries come together for food, fun, and connection,” said Klassen, thanking all the evening’s sponsors for their support and everyone for coming out.
