INNISFAIL – Since arriving in town in 2007 from the Philippines Grace Gresos has experienced both joy and heartbreak.
She is supremely grateful for everything the community has given; for her personally, her family, and the dozens of other Filipinos who have followed her family’s path to Innisfail.
Gresos became the president of the Phil-Can Neighbourhood Association, and all members have made a commitment of gratitude to always give back to their new community in any way they can.
On May 4, the association hosted a 10th anniversary party at the Innisfail Royal Canadian Legion Branch #104.
But it was so much more; a fundraiser for the Innisfail and District Food Bank.
To show its profound gratitude for Innisfail, the 70-member association crafted the special dinner evening around an Alberta western theme; “a dinner dance party for a cause.”
Town of Innisfaiul Mayor Jean Barclay reminded the 230-plus audience, who each paid $25 to support the cause, that due to a tight labour market 15 years ago Innisfail witnessed “newcomers” to town.
“We soon learned these so-called newcomers were not visitors or temporary residents, as their visas may have stated, rather they were the most amazing people who came to live here, work here, and their deep commitment to Innisfail became evident,” said Barclay. “They embraced everything about the community, the province and this incredible country we call home, Canada.”
Gresos, a citizen of profound Christian faith, told the Albertan that being in Innisfail has been an “inspiring” experience for her and her fellow new Canadians.
“We want to pay back for the goodness of Innisfail,” said Gresos, adding Innisfailians stepped up when her home burnt down in 2023. “It’s about how they have opened their hearts and how they accept us.”
The evening’s fundraising total will be announced later this month.
