Nanaimo’s Working Group on Homelessness is hosting a free community barbecue.
The barbecue is Saturday (Aug. 13) at the Bowen Park picnic shelter from noon to 3 p.m. It’s aimed at people in need, but open to anyone with hotdogs, hamburgers, salads, desserts, games, prizes and entertainment promised.
The barbecue is modelled after similar events the group has hosted, such as its Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners and the Homelessness Connect Day.
The group decided to host it in the summer because there is a lack of events in the summer for people in need, said Gord Fuller, 7-10 Club representative on the working group.
“It’s about getting together in the spirit of summer and (people) enjoying themselves and not having to worry about costs,” he said.
France Tellier said the working group is trying to create a sense of community for the volunteers and participants.
The event is funded through money given to the City of Nanaimo by the Regional District of Nanaimo for homelessness projects. The working group has about $10,000 to create various event over the next two years.
“It goes directly to provide fun for people who need it most,” he said.
Fuller said events such as the barbecue give people a break from worrying about where their next meal will come from and a chance to connect to other community members and feel included.
Organizers are seeking volunteers to help during the barbecue and to bring salads and desserts. People interested in volunteering can call Tellier at the Nanaimo John Howard Society at 250-754-1266.