The final Golden West Taste of Summer Charity BBQ of the season wrapped up today, with money being raised for Estevan Minor Football (EMF) outside of Canuckade Rentals.
The last event of 2024 had the usual hotdogs, cookies, and water, but was also joined by two bouncy castles and an ice cream truck with a total of $862 raised by the BBQ.
EMF Vice President Paul Duncan says they're looking to raise funds for a number of teams playing in the upcoming football season.
"We're doing a charity BBQ to help raise funds for Estevan Minor Football, helping support our U10, U12, U14, and the U18 Virago team. All of our teams, the Cudas, Chargers, the Oilers, and the Viragos. Just trying to get to a little bit more out in the community, trying to get Estevan to rally around behind us a little bit more and drive for some more player recruitment, and coach recruitment as well and just have a good time."
That money will go towards two of their biggest costs, equipment and travel.
"We're looking at equipment, helmets, shoulder pads, that kind of stuff, transportation for the players as well. I know that's a large thing that we have is transportation just to help substitute the cost for families to travel, make sure that kids can take the bus and get there all together as a team."
With that $862 raised, EMF President Pat Ford says that'll go a long way to helping out with their costs.
"That's a pretty good day for a BBQ over lunch. It will go towards travel, most of it. It's a huge cost, we bus all our kids to the away games."
Duncan reminds people that the EMF always appreciates some help, especially with the football season approaching.
"We could always use more players for all the age groups. So with the citywide registration coming up here at the end of the month, it's not too late to either sign up now at estevanfootball.com or check us out on Facebook and we're looking for coaches as well. Come be a part of the wonderful culture that we have at Estevan Minor Football."