WINNIPEG — As Cooper Nemeth’s family continues to mourn his death, they reached out to a community organization that supported them in a time of need.
Bear Clan Patrol was involved in the search for Nemeth and organized a traditional drum circle and smudging ceremony in the days after the teen’s body was found. Hundreds of Winnipeggers arrived at Gateway Community Centre in support.
RELATED: Cooper Nemeth’s parents speak at smudging ceremony
“This is the positive that can come from something so tragic,” said Brent Sayles, Cooper Nemeth’s uncle.
Sayles and a number of friends and families brought a homecooked meal to Bear Clan Patrol as a sign of their appreciation of their help and support.
PHOTO GALLERY: Family of Cooper Nemeth deliver food to Bear Clan
Bear Clan Patrol is a community organization that looks after citizens in the city’s North End; their chief goal is preventing crime. It restarted during the Tina Fontaine case, after being dormant for a number of years.
James Favel, a member of the patrol, said simple kind acts like these can help heal racial tensions in the city.
“Having a meal together, is like becoming family with one another. That’s how we bond,” said Favel.
“I feel like we made a definite and distinct impact that will come forward out of this.”
A “celebration of life” is planned for the teen on Monday February 29.