.jpg)
This is the third annual Empty Bowls charity fundraiser event organized by Square One Community, Inc, and the tables were full — at least 200 people turned out in support, including many local politicians.
Empty Bowls raises money to support Square One’s mission of building a ‘continuum of supports’ for the unhoused in and around Moose Jaw. Attendees paid $20 for a ticket, claimed one of hundreds of donated bowls (many handcrafted by local potters), and filled it with one of the soups donated by six Moose Jaw restaurants.
There were also bread rolls, tea and coffee, and a big Square One cake for dessert.
Sask Party MLAs Tim McLeod, Megan Patterson, and Blaine McLeod were present, claiming bowls and buying tickets for Square One’s Staycation raffle.
Moose Jaw’s mayor-elect James Murdock and other members of City Council were there, too, sitting and eating with friends and family.
“I am very grateful for everyone that came today and supported this critical initiative,” said Max Eckstein, Square One’s Special Projects Co-ordinator. “It really warms my heart and inspires me to continue doing the work I do. And because of the support that everyone gave today, we can have more miracle stories.
“The vibe I’m getting today is community unity, especially coming out of an election where things seem divisive. It’s really nice to see everyone pulling together and working together to bring a brighter future for our vulnerable unhoused citizens.”
In December, Eckstein explained, Square One will launch their Phase One direct service initiative to support vulnerable tenants in the William Milne building, a portion of which serves as Square One’s headquarters.
Square One first began developing what they hoped would be a warming shelter at William Milne in February 2023. What eventually happened was the Jan. 2024 opening of an emergency overnight shelter at Willow Lodge operated by the John Howard Society. Square One pivoted to direct funding and support to that shelter, instead.
“We’re also busy planning our Phase Two for intakes right out of the Willow Lodge Shelter, and we have been in consultation with provincial leaders and with the city, as well, looking for funding for that, and things are looking positive.”
Square One board chair Mary-Lee Booth said support for Square One is solid, and she thanked all the volunteers, business sponsors, and community organizations who contributed.
“Everything here was by donation, so we really are very, very grateful for the support of these individuals, businesses, and organizations,” Booth commented. “It’s great to see all the people coming out that are interested in giving supports to people that are unhoused and helping us build a continuum of services in Moose Jaw.
“We just got our shelter here in January and we recognize that there’s a lot of other pieces to building besides an overnight shelter. We really are working hard on building a supportive housing initiative that helps people when they are through the shelter system and are going out to embark on their own independent living.”