5th Annual Newcomer Skate on Charles Clark Square
For the fifth consecutive year, community organizations are coming together for the Newcomer Skate at Charles Clarke Square. All Saints’ Church, the YMCA of Southwestern Ontario (YMCA) and the Downtown Windsor Community Collaborative (DWCC) will bring together adults and children who are new to Windsor-Essex to enjoy a winter pastime. All partners believe in building community through collaboration and relationship building. Sport 4 All, a barrier-free sports program through the DWCC, is also contributing by having experienced skaters help others learn to skate.
The event is part of the YMCA’s Essentials to Integration Initiative, through the Welcoming Community Program, bringing adults and children from all ethnic backgrounds who are new to Canada together for an enjoyable activity. They will get outside in the winter for some fun physical activity, learn to skate, and meet neighbours in the community. Both the downtown Tim Hortons and The Hub restaurant will be
keeping skaters warm and energized with hot soup, hot chocolate, timbits, and fruit.
Throughout the year, All Saints’ Church offers a free skate lending program on Saturday mornings. On February 1st, the skate room will be open and staffed by the YMCA Newcomer Youth program and women’s group session to assist with interpretation and skate fittings. The event has grown immensely, with over 200 people in attendance last year and even more participation expected this year!
All are welcome – both experienced skaters and those new to skating. Join us in this experience of a Canadian winter activity.
The event runs from 2-4pm at Charles Clark Square (215 Chatham Street East, Windsor). Skates and helmets will be available for free loan from All Saints’ Church starting at 1 pm. Trained and experienced volunteers will fit participants with skates. Participants will be welcomed by Ward 3 Councillor Rino Bortolin beginning at 2 pm.
Food will be served at 2:30pm, with Tim Hortons donating hot chocolate and timbits. The HUB Restaurant in the Square will be serving complimentary soup, bread, fruit, and vegetables prepared by volunteers. The Parish Hall at All Saints’ Church will be available for those who need respite from the weather. Agencies, faith communities and cultural clubs are invited to share and refer interested newcomers.