Elgin Street Mission Provides Holiday Meals with Community Support

The Elgin Street Mission in Greater Sudbury has launched its annual Mission 31 initiative, offering hot meals every night throughout December. This year, the program has seen an enthusiastic response from both volunteers and attendees, fostering a spirit of generosity during the holiday season.

Community Engagement and Purpose

Director Amanda Labreche emphasized the importance of involving diverse community groups in this effort. “The idea is to have different groups in as well, throughout the month, different community groups serving to be able to see what we do here at the mission,” she explained to CTV News. The opening night featured a live band, contributing to a vibrant communal atmosphere.

Volunteer Sonia DelMissier from the Rotary Club Sudbury Sunrisers spoke about the deeper meaning of the season. “It’s part of getting into the spirit of Christmas and not the commercial spirit, but the true meaning of Christmas,” she noted. DelMissier, who has volunteered in previous years, expressed a unique feeling in launching this month-long effort. “It’s the sense that maybe we’re making a difference, each of us in our own little way, that for however brief a time, we’re providing some kind of comfort to people who need it,” she said.

Growing Need and Generosity

This year’s Mission 31 has achieved remarkable success, raising over $31,000 and involving more than 31 community groups. The increased volunteer support has enabled the mission to expand its services. “People are very generous with their time, especially here in Sudbury. It’s the holiday season; people want to give back,” Labreche remarked. The mission has even added breakfast services due to high demand. “We had to open up breakfast. So that’s a good problem to have,” she said.

Despite this surge in generosity, Labreche pointed out a significant rise in demand for the mission’s services. The ongoing economic challenges have led to an increase in the number of individuals seeking assistance. “With the cost of living going up more, we’re seeing those young families. On a regular night, we aim for around 200 meals, but sometimes that number can reach 250,” she explained.

The local community’s response has been overwhelmingly positive, ensuring that warm meals remain available during the holidays. “We have such a generous community, to raise $1,000 a night and then to have a very generous company to match that,” Labreche added. She expressed gratitude for the contributions from community members and sponsors, highlighting the support that helps ensure everyone can enjoy a warm holiday meal this season.