Dozens of residents packed into The Mad Greek restaurant on May 3 as Saskatchewan Roughriders running back A. J. Ouellette made a return stop in Moose Jaw, drawing a strong turnout in support of a fundraiser for the Moose Jaw Transition House.

The event ran from 2 to 4 p.m., with a steady line of Riders fans moving through the venue, with many arriving early for a chance to meet Ouellette, snap a photo, and leave with a signed keepsake.

Organized by restaurant owner John Iatridis, the event continues a series of local fundraising efforts supporting women and children fleeing domestic violence.

Supporting the effort, SaskPromo.com, represented by Kevin Ogle, supplied mini footballs and printed cards for autographs, which were available by donation. While admission remained free and accessible, proceeds from memorabilia and other contributions were directed to the Transition House.

The crowd reflected a broad cross-section of the community, with Mayor James Murdock among those in attendance, alongside local personalities such as Leroy and Leroy.

For Iatridis, the cause remains a deeply personal one.

“I think it’s important that, if you can give back, that you do,” he said. “There’s a lot of people who are going through things that you don’t always see, and if we’re in a position to help out, then we should.”

He said efforts like this also tie into a broader goal of strengthening Moose Jaw’s connection with Saskatchewan’s CFL team.

“I would love for Moose Jaw to kind of be a home away from home for the Riders,” he said.

That vision has already begun to take shape, from preparing and delivering meals to the team in Regina to hosting player visits and exploring partnerships to bring more events and experiences into the community.

“We’re trying to work with tourism to get something going to get them here — whether it’s a Rider day, trolley rides, hotel stays, or meals — just because they are Saskatchewan’s team,” he said.

While those efforts continue to build momentum, Iatridis said the focus remains on supporting organizations like the Transition House through events like this.

For more information on the Moose Jaw Transition House and how to support its programs, visit MJ-TransitionHouse.com. If you are in need of support, call the 24-hour crisis line at 306-693-6511.

Aaron Walker

Reporter

Moose Jaw Express