Regina: Celebrating Grow Hope Saskatchewan
Courtesy of Joanne Shurvin-Martin
Prepared for the Saskatchewan Anglican
On June 8th, Bagnal Hall of St. Paul’s Cathedral hosted an event celebrating Grow Hope Saskatchewan, drawing around 30 attendees from various Christian denominations, including Anglicans, Roman Catholics, and Mennonites. Organized by the Diocese of Qu’Appelle and the Primates World Relief & Development Fund (PWRDF).
Speakers and Insights
Bishop Helen Kennedy opened the event, emphasizing Saskatchewan’s role as a major agricultural producer and the province’s potential to lead in global food security. She invoked biblical references to underline the significance of feeding the hungry as a communal and spiritual duty.
Terry Gates from Regina’s Immanuel parish shared his journey of getting involved with Grow Hope SK after hearing a powerful presentation on food security in Kenya. Gates highlighted the stark reality of global hunger, with 830 million people affected, 90% of whom live in developing countries.
Rick Block, Saskatchewan Regional Representative for CFGB, discussed the organization’s dual approach: providing emergency food aid and promoting long-term food security through sustainable agricultural practices. He shared impactful stories from CFGB-supported programs in Ethiopia, demonstrating how local communities are reclaiming degraded land through collaborative efforts.
Left: (Rick Block) Rick Block is Saskatchewan Regional Representative for Canadian Foodgrains Bank.
Right: (Sam Ferguson & Kim Umbach) Sam Ferguson (back) is diocesan representative for PWRDF. Kim Umbach, holding microphone, is Volunteer Co-ordinator for PWRDF across Canada. Both spoke at the Grow Hope information meeting in Regina.
The Broader Mission
CFGB, with over 40 years of experience, continues to address hunger through emergency food provision and long-term development programs. These initiatives focus on preventing soil erosion, conserving water, and promoting sustainable farming practices. The organization now prefers purchasing locally appropriate food rather than shipping unfamiliar grains, ensuring better acceptance and nutrition.
(Abuk Deng) Abuk Deng, a member of PWRDF Youth Council, described her participation in Hunger on the Hill, when a group of young people met with Members of Parliament and policy makers to discuss food security at home and overseas.
Grow Hope Saskatchewan exemplifies the power of community and cooperation in tackling global challenges. By bringing together farmers, sponsors, and relief agencies, we transform agricultural efforts into life-saving support for the world's most vulnerable populations.