Mr. Speaker, I am honoured to recognize the exceptional community efforts of a dedicated group of aboriginal women from Hobbema, Alberta. Their community, like many first nations communities across this country, faces great challenges grappling with youth gang violence and homelessness. Far too many community members were travelling to nearby towns looking for help and finding trouble.
They decided that a better solution would be to offer positive support and nourishment in their own community. More than a year ago, they established a soup kitchen. Each Wednesday, volunteers including lawyers, band councillors, pensioners and stay-at-home moms offer warm soup and bannock, coupled with laughter and community spirit. More than 10,000 joyous meals have been provided to date. Starting next month they will do this five days a week, and the neighbouring Ermineskin Band is following suit. Janet Swampy, at the community centre, shared that they are more than rewarded with the smiles on the faces of those they welcome each week.
I ask my colleagues to join me in commending the women of Hobbema for this commendable volunteer initiative.