Tânisi tawâw pîhtokwê. You are welcome here. This meaning guides how the new Community Food Hub will build community, and fight hunger. Today, the words are also being put into action through a partnership with Innovation Federal Credit Union that will use food and programming as a tool for kwayaskâtisiwin (setting things right).
The Innovation Federal Credit Union Wâhkôwîcihiwêwin Room is possible by a generous gift of $250,000.00 continuing Innovation’s commitment to reconciliation and food security. The room and Food Hub will host innovative indigenous-led programming focusing on food sovereignty, and education. The investment will also allow the Food Hub to use indigenous language wayfinding throughout the food hub.
This investment continues a steadfast dedication to âpwênimâkêwin (bringing the truth of things) according to Dan Johnson, CEO of Innovation. “This investment is one way we express commitment of our values and our gratitude to the communities we serve. We are honored to be gifted the Cree name for the reconciliation room wâhkôwîcihiwêwin and look forward to working with our partners to advance reconciliation".
The Community Food Hub will be Canada’s first at-scale choice model food bank. This will allow clients for the first time to choose food that meets their unique dietic and cultural needs. The choice model location will be in the heart of downtown Regina to help reduce barriers and stigma. Innovation’s investment will help change forever how a food bank operates.
“We are all treaty people. We believe we can use food as a tool for reconciliation. The community asks us to not just feed people, but to feed relationships and feed hope. With Innovation’s investment, we can provide a welcoming space where education, relationships and ceremony can be held and nurtured”, said John Bailey CEO, Regina Food Bank.
Innovation Federal Credit Union gives 2-4% of their pre-tax profits to activities and causes that build community, and is a source of pride according to Shawna Jardine, Community Specialist with Innovation. “Our commitment remains unwavering: feeding the hungry, fostering resilience, and building stronger communities is all part of our Responsible Banking™ philosophy.”
Food insecurity has reached record levels with over 25,000 people requiring assistance daily. It is critical we meet that demand. “Everyone should have their basic, fundamental needs met. It's why we strive to reduce poverty, enhance health, and promote education to build thriving communities. By supporting the Regina Foodbank Reconciliation Room, we promote all three of these focus areas,” said Derek Vanthuyne, VP Strategy & Innovation with Innovation Federal Credit Union.
The Community Food Hub will open later this summer.
To learn more about the Food Hub visit https://www.reginafoodbank.ca/food-hub-campaign
To learn more about Innovation Federal Credit Union, visit https://www.innovationcu.ca/
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