Experience Elmwood this summer

Elmwood

After a long, cold winter and dreary spring, summer is once again upon us.

It’s a time for enjoying the weather, spending time with friends and family, and getting active. Many will vacation, either across the country or out of the city. There are popular attractions within city limits like The Forks and Assiniboine Park. But there is also plenty to do right here in Elmwood.

On Friday, July 10 the Glenelm Neighbourhood Association will hold its monthly boardgame night from 7 to 10 p.m. Held in partnership with Victory Pints Games and hosted at The Big Red Church (127 Cobourg Ave.), this will be a night of board game fun and light snacks. An event for the whole family, people can play together and meet their neighbours.

If the weather is nice, and even if it is not, people can also get some great time volunteering each Thursday evening and Sunday afternoon with the Elmwood Unity Walks. These happen each Thursday from 6 to 9 p.m. and each Sunday from 12:30 4 p.m. At these Unity Walks, volunteers will help clean up the neighbourhood and distribute food and clothes to vulnerable community members. It is a really impactful way to spend your free time.

The walks are organized by the Chalmers Neighbourhood Renewal Corporation (CNRC). People interested in joining the walks or donating items can call 204-557-0156 or email unitywalk@chalmersrenewal.org

Some time soon, the CNRC is also expected to open the Chalmers Neighourhood Renewal Housing, Resources, & Food Rescue (CHARM) Hub at 301 Ottawa Ave. In addition to housing support, the Hub will be a place where people can buy low-cost food. This will be an important service for many Elmwood residents given how rare grocery stores are in the neighbourhood.

Throughout July and August, the Elmwood Community Resource Centre will be holding a Wellness Hub Summer Learning Series of workshops. Most of the workshops will be held at 545 Watt St., and will cover many topics, including life skills, cultural exchange and learning, and parenting skills. For more information or to register, people can email dropinsupport@elmwoodcrc.ca or call 204-982-1720 ext 21.

There is, of course, also the every day pleasure one can get walking or biking through Ernie O’Dowda Park or enjoying a sundae from local shops. There is much to do this summer in Elmwood.