A heap of potatos. (Image Credit: ID 24890232 © Nikolai Sorokin | Dreamstime.com)

By meadowlakeNOW Staff

food security

Métis Nation to give away 55,000 pounds of potatos in Meadow Lake

Feb 11, 2026 | 4:47 PM

Tens of thousands of pounds of rescued potatoes are expected to be distributed to residents in Meadow Lake and surrounding communities through a partnership between the city and Métis Nation–Saskatchewan.

Meadow Lake city council approved a request Feb. 9 to waive facility fees and support a free potato giveaway planned for March, with a final date still to be confirmed.

According to a report presented to council, the event aims to distribute approximately 55,000 pounds of potatoes sourced through a food rescue program. The initiative is intended to support local families, promote healthy eating and prevent the potatoes from being disposed of in landfill. 

Loretta King, regional director for Métis Nation–Saskatchewan in Meadow Lake, approached the city with the partnership request, which includes providing a suitable indoor space and assistance unloading pallets of potatoes delivered by semi-truck.

Council approved the use of the InnovationPlex Fieldhouse for the event. Administration recommended the facility because it can accommodate indoor storage, provide garage door access for unloading and offer sufficient parking space to allow for drive-through pickup.

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City staff will assist with unloading the pallets using municipal equipment, including a skid steer operated by qualified personnel. Parks and Recreation staff will also prepare the space to protect flooring during the distribution.

Council agreed to waive facility rental and preparation fees for one day. If the event extends into a second day, Métis Nation–Saskatchewan will be charged a flat fee of $600 to help offset staffing and equipment costs. 

City administration noted the west side of the fieldhouse will be used and the event will not require exclusive use of the building, allowing regular programming to continue.

Any potatoes remaining after the giveaway could be donated to the local food bank or other organizations in the region.

Council documents state sponsorship and fee waiver requests are reviewed on a case-by-case basis and may be approved when they promote social well-being or address community needs. 

Administration said the potato distribution meets those criteria by supporting food access while diverting food from waste streams.  

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