REGINA - The Heritage FASTT Program, aimed to address food insecurity, will operate out of the former #1 Firehall at 1654 11th Avenue upon a lease agreement after city council approved a motion on Wednesday.
The program is a collaborative initiative of the Heritage Community Association (HCA), The Matriarch’s Collective, Good Trouble Network YQR, The Regina Street Team (RST) and the University of Regina faculty of business to combat the growing food insecurity in Regina.
"Food insecurity isn't just a statistic in Regina; it’s a harsh reality," said Tiro Mthembu of the Good Trouble Network YQR.
Statistics from the Regina Food Bank indicate that around 25,000 people in the city currently face food insecurity.
Mthembu noted the program isn’t an idea but rather something already happening.
The program uses food nearing the end of its life cycle and cooks it to provide over 800 meals to residents weekly.
Mthembu said they require a more stable space to continue the work they're doing.
Political views
Some councillors took aim with the views and messages Good Trouble Network YQR has previously posted.
They are very involved in political extremism," said Ward 10 Coun. Clark Bezo. He mentioned their campaign to defund the police and other points of concern.
Ward 2 Coun. George Tsiklis questioned Dr. Peter Moroz of the U of R for his support of the Good Trouble Network YQR.
"I’m seeing things on social media that aren’t courageous, compassionate or up-lifting," he said.
Ward 8 Coun. Shanon Zachidniak called out her colleagues on the matter.
"I’m frankly embarrassed that folks came out with a solution to help us meet our goals as a council [and] our strategic priorities, and what happens? people start attacking them," she said.
While city manager Niki Anderson noted she doesn’t always agree with the views of the organization, she wants to support a common goal they have with the city.
Decision
After deliberations, city council voted 10-0 in favour of the motion.
With the motion passing, the city will negotiate a lease agreement with the HCA to pay $1 per month to lease out the location from April 21st, 2025, to April 20th, 2026.
The city noted the operational costs for the facility, like utilities, would be $33,000 for a year. However, this would not impact their efforts to find $1.55 million in savings for the 2026-27 budget.
There will also be a property tax exemption for the space approved by the city.
After a year, the program will report back to city council "detailing its activities, outcomes, and recommendations for future sustainability."
Moroz noted the program is looking to find ways to become more sustainable after leasing out the property for a year.
