COLD LAKE - Every Thursday from 12 to 1 p.m., the Cold Lake Native Friendship Centre transforms into a welcoming hub for community members to gather and share a meal. Known as "Soup and Bannock Thursday," this weekly tradition has been a cornerstone of the centre since its inception in 1999.
“Years ago, since 1999 when the Friendship Centre was established here, we decided to have Soup and Bannock Thursday. People would bring in meat and vegetables and cook a meal for everybody. And because we didn't have any money in those days, neighbours, people that worked at the Friendship Centre, or local residents would contribute ingredients and cook the meal,” explains Agnes Gendron, the Executive Director of the Cold Lake Native Friendship Centre.
Gendron continues, “The Friendship Centre felt that at least one day in a week they can all come and eat together and visit with one another and enjoy each other's company.”
Over the years, the tradition has evolved. “Now we work bingos, and the Alberta Gaming, Liquor, and Cannabis (AGLC) lets us pay the cook on Thursdays, and then they do the cooking. Before it was all volunteer,” Gendron adds.
This shift has allowed for a more structured approach, ensuring the meal is consistently available and well-prepared.
The significance of Soup and Bannock Thursday extends beyond just providing a meal.
“It really helps the local community, especially those who are homeless. They come here and, if they know there's a meal, they’ll all come and share.”
Lynda Minoose, Language and Culture Director with Cold Lake First Nations, frequents the lunch regularly.
“I just like coming, socializing with others. It’s a good gathering place, very informal, relaxing, and the food is free.”
Minoose notes that the soup and bannock provide comfort to many, particularly those who may have experienced homelessness or hardship.
“The thing too is I noticed there’s more men that come here than women. Probably because they feel comfortable... They just come and have soup and bannock and go about their business,” Minoose observes.
This relaxed atmosphere helps create a sense of belonging and ease for attendees. The event also provides an opportunity for individuals to reconnect with their community in a low-pressure environment.
“You know, we don’t turn anybody away,” says Gendron. “They’ll come and eat as long as they don’t raise a ruckus with other people. So, we allow them to come and eat, just to be neighbourly.”
