The scent of garlic toast and bubbling lasagna drifts through the Elbert Chartrand Friendship Centre, wrapping around the room like a warm hug. For the 60 wildfire evacuees gathered here, it’s more than just a meal—a moment of peace in the middle of chaos.
These families, uprooted from their homes with little more than a suitcase and a prayer, carry the weight of uncertainty. Many have faced delays and confusion around financial aid, adding frustration to fear. But inside these walls, a different story is unfolding—one of compassion, resilience, and community.
Lesley Hart Sembaluk and her dedicated team are at the heart of this effort, joined by volunteers from the Swan River Seventh-day Adventist Church. Together, we’ve transformed the Centre into a sanctuary—not just with food but with kindness, laughter, and human connection.
This afternoon, the kitchen hums with life. Volunteers roll perogy dough by hand, laughter echoing as potatoes are mashed and meatballs sizzle. Church member Elizabeth Yablonski kneads dough with practiced care. I, too, found myself in the kitchen—mashing potatoes, washing dishes, and offering encouragement wherever needed. It’s not just cooking—it’s caregiving in its purest form.
A letter from Prairie Mountain Health encouraged communities to welcome evacuees with open arms. We didn’t just answer the call—we embraced it. We’ve created a space where evacuees can breathe, connect, and feel seen—a place where a hot meal is served with a side of hope.
As Stephanie Yamniuk, ADRA Canada’s Regional Manager for Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Nunavut, so beautifully put it:
“When our churches work alongside community, people will be able to understand that we walk the walk and talk the talk when we say, we are more than just a building in the community. We are friends.”
That is precisely what we’ve witnessed here. As the fires continue to burn and the future remains uncertain, our church has pledged to keep showing up with baking, food, and time. Our promise is simple: you are not alone.
By Pastor Amadeus Voyorite, District Pastor, Swan River Seventh-day Adventist Church
