The Humboldt Regional Newcomer Centre (HRNC) hosted a multicultural potluck supper at Westminster United Church, December 18.
The association's events committee coordinated the dinner that brought together people from around the world who now live in the Humboldt area.
"Our events committee was formed only about two months ago,"said Elvircia Natlazo, information coordinator for HRNC. "This is the first event they have organized outside our office."
About 10 different nationalities were represented in the array of traditional culinary dishes that covered the table. Lively chatter filled the hall as people met or introduced themselves to other foreigners.
A few Humboldtonians came out to show their support for the newcomers, but those who attended the dinner were mainly immigrants to Canada who now live in the Humboldt area. They come from Holland, South Africa, Korea, China, Uzbekhistan, the Philippines, Germany, and England, to name a few.
Some have been living here for many years while others have only just arrived recently, such as Karin Sonnak and her daughter Eileen, who came from Germany just over one year ago.
"I wish there were more occasions like this for socializing," said Sonnak who lives in Lanigan. "It hasn't been easy for us to integrate into the community where we live."
That wish should come true for Sonnak and other newcomers to the area now that HRNC's events committee is up and running.
Plans for future events will unfold as the new year opens, but Natlazo says they will be looking at organizing outings for newcomers to attend community events together, such as Humboldt's annual Summer Sizzler or the Canada Day celebrations.
"And we're still looking for more people to join the committee," Natlazo added.
