Hundreds attend Souls Harbour’s Easter feast

REGINA – Hundreds packed into the Dean Smith Youth Centre in North Central for Souls Harbour Rescue Mission’s Easter meal Saturday afternoon.

“Easter is a meaningful time of year. It has a lot of hope with it being spring and representing new life,” said Rebecca Cochrane, programs director at Souls Harbour. “It’s a great opportunity for us to gather together with people that don’t have another way to celebrate, and to celebrate together.”

But that celebration isn’t a reality for many in our community.

“Some people can’t really afford a meal on their own, so it’s important for this place to put this on for them to be able to come and have a dinner,” said George Johnstone, an attendee.

The meal included the usual fixings, including ham, potatoes, and cake; a selection that can sometimes be a rare feast for of those in need.

“Some of them are homeless, single families, so it’s good for the community,” said Donald Hance, another attendee.

Seats filled fast for a celebration months in the making. Souls Harbour was able to keep up thanks the roster of 75 volunteers.

“It gives you that good feeling inside, you’re giving back and helping people out that maybe don’t have what you have, and make you appreciate what you do have,” said volunteer Blair Andrew.

“Anytime is an important time to show goodwill and love to our fellow brothers and sisters,” said Louis Halbgewachs, who volunteered along with his wife, daughter, and son.

The same sentiments were shared by someone who knows the importance of teamwork.

“Born and raised here in Regina, I mean, this is my community, right? So, getting the change to come back here and, like I said, hang out with the people and the kids, and serve is what you should be doing,” said volunteer Paul Woldu, defensive back for the Saskatchewan Roughriders.

No matter the setting, the goal is the same.

“We want them to get stuffed, just like most of us do when we’re at home with our families celebrating,” said Cochrane.