Saskatoon Open Door Society hosts dinner for men's programs

Members of the men's support programs at the Saskatoon Open Door Society [SODS] came together Friday for a dinner and evening of culture.

"People who come from different cultures, different languages understand the importance of sharing a meal," said Ali Abukar, executive director of SODS.

More than 80 participants were at the meal.

Abukar said the men's programs were created once it was realized that the society's programs weren't addressing needs of men.

The men's programs now bring together men and boys who are new to Saskatoon to not only learn about their new city, but build a community.

"In a lot of cultures, men do not cook and they do not do, like, household chores and things like that. So then cooking was something that also men could do together."

Abukar said the men often also take part in sports and other recreational activities together. They also have opportunities to ask questions about policing in Saskatoon or things like SGI.

Friday night's event included speakers, a musical performance and a dance performance.