A full house and familiar faces filled the Fort Kent Community Centre this weekend, as residents gathered for a community breakfast that continues to bring neighbours together.

Bonnyville–Cold Lake–St. Paul MLA Scott Cyr attended the event, describing it as a reminder of the connection and pride that define rural communities across the Lakeland.

“From the moment you walked in, you could feel the strong sense of community,” Cyr said.

 

More than just a breakfast

The event drew families, volunteers and longtime residents, with conversations flowing as easily as the coffee.

Cyr said gatherings like this play an important role beyond the meal itself.

“Events like this are a simple but important reminder of what makes our region so strong. They bring people together… and keep the spirit of our rural communities alive,” he said.

 

Deep family roots in Fort Kent

For Cyr, the visit also carried personal meaning.

He shared that his great-grandparents lived in Fort Kent in 1929, purchasing land before eventually leaving during the Great Depression — a connection that still resonates today.

“Being back in the community is a reminder of that history and the generations who helped build this area,” he said.

 

Volunteers behind the scenes

The breakfast was organized by the Fort Kent Community Centre Board, with Cyr recognizing the group’s efforts in keeping the facility active and events running.

“It takes a committed group of volunteers to keep a community hall active and thriving,” he said.

Board members recognized included Daniel Jubinville, David Beale, Twila Gamache, Amber Cook, Jan Watson, Grace Hebert, Jeannine Mercier and Tracy Fesiuk.

 

Listening to the community

Cyr said the event also provided an opportunity to connect directly with residents and hear what matters most to them.

“These conversations matter and help ensure the voices of our rural communities continue to be heard,” he said.

 

Keeping rural connections strong

Community breakfasts like the one in Fort Kent remain a staple across northeastern Alberta, serving as both social gatherings and informal hubs for local discussion.

For many, they represent the kind of grassroots connection that continues to shape the region.

“Moments like this are a reminder of why I do this work,” Cyr said.