In Regina, Canada, the BMO Asahtowikamik Community Food Hub, opened in August 2024, offers an innovative approach to combating food insecurity. The space functions as a free supermarket, where vulnerable families can select fruits, bread, proteins, and other essential items, unlike the traditional model of pre-made baskets.
The goal is to restore dignity and autonomy to families by allowing them to choose food according to their preferences, medical restrictions, and cultural traditions. The name "Asahtowikamik" means "food shelter" in the Cree language, and the project also includes nutrition and financial education programs, prioritizing local products.
The initiative emerges amidst growing demand, with the Regina Food Bank serving over 17,000 people monthly. The Hub has already assisted 9,240 families in 2026 and launched a campaign to raise funds for one million meals. The model, funded by private donations, aims to transform food assistance into an experience of autonomy.
