North Saskatchewan River Metis Local 269 Kids Camp workers handed out free meals and free hygiene kits for men and women in downtown Prince Albert on Friday July 31 at 2 p.m.
North Sask. River Metis Local 269 is located in Prince Albert on 13 Street East, and they provide week-long cultural camps for kids to learn Michif, and other traditional Metis teachings, beading and jigging programs, and community events that foster Metis pride and connection between Prince Albert residents.
Abigail Berden, a worker for the Kids Camp at Metis Local 269 said she wanted to hand out free meals and essential items for those in need, for her birthday.
“I just wanted to do it for my birthday to try and give to other people,” said Berden.
Berden and another worker, Hailey, had their table set up outside the First Nations University doors on Central Avenue, where they handed out a large box of meals, and hygiene kits with essential items such as emergency blankets, toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, beef jerky, and menstrual products in the female hygiene kits.
“Just about the fact that so many people aren’t able to afford, especially with everything going up in price nowadays. It’s so easy for people to even end up on the streets, or even just not be able to afford basic human hygiene,” said Berden.
The pair quickly ran out of meals, handing them out to anyone passing by, but continued to give away the free hygiene kits afterwards.
Berden said she will be sure to bring drinks the next time, as many people asked for water on the hot summer day.
Berden encouraged families to bring their kids to the Metis Local 269 Kids Camp, and more information can be found at saskrivermetisnationlocal269.ca or on North Sask. River Metis Local 269 on Facebook.
