Edmonton Meals on Wheels partners with Enoch Cree Nation to feed community
In January 2024, Edmonton Meals on Wheels entered a partnership with Enoch Cree Nation to provide meal support to guests staying at the Wihchihaw Maskokamik Society (Bear Lodge), an emergency lodging centre that offers a variety of supports and services.
As part of our partnership with Enoch, we deliver a combination of fresh and frozen meals to ensure that guests have access to three meals a day. These meals include items from both our frozen and fresh daily menu, such as breakfast sandwiches or entrees. This arrangement allows Enoch to feed their guests while working towards obtaining their own kitchen.
The partnership stemmed from a referral given by another agency. Enoch had been searching for another organization that could provide meal support for Maskokamik. The lodging centre is one of the several programs underneath Enoch’s Wellness Branch which aim to uplift and support community members, whether that be Enoch Band Members or other members from the general populace seeking resources and support.
According to Glori Sharphead, senior manager of Maskokamik, the centre provides their community members “safety, compassion, empathy, [and] shelter” while building connections within those who may be in need of support.
The centre acts as a support hub for guests seeking out bedding, shower access, housing assistance, or cultural support. These meals are one of the many ways in which Enoch is able to uplift their community members. While the meals’ nutritional content is crucial to maintaining health, they don’t just “[provide] them nutrition.”
The meals themselves offer guests the comfort that comes from eating a delicious meal. “It’s good food,” Glori says, “but, it’s not gross… You can tell that when the food is made, it’s made fresh and it’s made with love.”
“You can tell that when the food is made, it’s made fresh and it’s made with love.” — Glori Sharphead, Senior Manager of Maskokamik
Edmonton Meals on Wheels is incredibly grateful to have the opportunity to collaborate with Enoch. Through Enoch, we have the opportunity to extend our compassion and ensure that our neighbours are fed and uplifted. Glori recognizes the importance of the partnership between EMOW and Enoch. “We’re grateful for the relationship we’ve built,” she says. Sharing the common principle of compassionate care, we are able to unite and work towards empowering our community members.
We want to extend our utmost gratitude towards Enoch Cree Nation for partnering with us. We recognize your unwavering efforts in fostering community wellness through supports, advocacy, and profound kindness.
