In March, when we needed to pause our street outreach program, we reached out to the City of Vancouver and our partners in the community in order to see how we could continue to support the homeless and vulnerable people on the West Side. This led to the launch of our Food and Clothing Drive. Many of the community meals had shut down, but we identified two places that were continuing to provide food programs: St Augustine’s Church and Kits Cares Cafe that operates out of Kits Neighbourhood House where they hand out bags of groceries. To date the Neighbourhood Ministry has contributed about 150 bags (each containing 5 items) to this program. We have also donated approximately 10 car loads of clothing to downtown shelters. Thanks to all of you who have made this possible. Your donations have been much appreciated by our partners and the recipients.
In recent months the number of people accessing the various food programmes has increased. There are some amazing efforts going on, and we feel that our Food and Clothing Drive is making a strong contribution. Thank you for your generosity and please give regularly because the need is ongoing!
Monday - Friday 9:00 - 4:00. Please drop off your donations of food, hygiene sundries and clothing to the donation bins on the porch, while accepting responsibility for your own safety if work is ongoing.
Clothing for men: rain jackets and pants, t-shirts, sweatshirts, lightweight long-sleeved shirts, jeans, underwear and socks.
Food: easy-open cans of meat or fish, soft cereal bars (no granola), protein bars, meal replacement drinks like Ensure or Boost, fruit cups, juice boxes and bottled water.
Hygiene sundries: unopened toothpaste, brushes, shampoo, hygiene products, etc.
Volunteers needed: Can you help with delivering food for about 2 hours every 2-4 weeks? email ministrymcu@gmail.com.
See the flyer below for more details about donations.