East Village seniors raise money for neighbourhood BBQ

A group of seniors living in the East Village has come up with an idea to help build a sense of community in the neighbourhood.

The residents would like to host a series of community barbecues so everyone can get to know one another.

They've received permission to have charcoalat their buildingnow the only thing holding them back is the barbecue itself.

So they've taken to the web to raise the funds.

Creating community

Mike Lambert, the chief organizer, told the Calgary Eyeopenerthe idea is all about bringing people together.

"More people get involved that way when you're eating," he said."People come and say, 'Oh, food!'"

Lambert said the barbecues will provide residents with an opportunity to introduce new arrivals to the community and "break down the barriers."

"Our neighbourhood has not always been a safe and friendly place but it is quickly changing with new development and condo buildings," Lambert wrote on the group's gofundmepage.

'Part of these community changes'

"Unfortunately, some of these changes have brought in a feeling of segregation and gentrification."

"We want to be a part of these community changes rather than get lost in the shuffle," he added.

So far, the group has raised $250 toward a new charcoal barbecue, with a goal of $1,000.

They've given themselves some good lead time to raise the money. The first barbecue is scheduled for August.

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With files from the Calgary Eyeopener