Saint André Bessette Catholic Church

Looking for places to volunteer? Downtown Chapel on Burnside is a great place to start. They have lots of different programs, but the one we were involved with was their Saturday social. This is good for groups. Every Saturday they host a social for the homeless from 9 – 11 am along with a light breakfast. They ask that volunteers bring food, but it’s not neccessary. Our group of 28 brought some bagels w/​cc, fruit, juice, and can of coffee. I got 6 dozen bagels and cut them in half and it was plenty. I think there was around 50 – 60 people who stopped by. (Call them for the full 411)
The mission of Downtown Chapel is about fostering community. I really enjoyed this particular experience, because aside from the food, we were able to talk and socialize… I just like it when communities get together… There’s something special about that. I met lots of interesting people, played board games, and shared good conversation. Everyone was really great and my youth group kids enjoyed it as well, although some weren’t comfortable with the socializing part, so they stuck to serving food– which is completely fine. Whatever you’re cool with.
Yes, people hunger for food, but many hunger for love. For someone just to listen… Many people, not just the poor, suffer from social/​emotional alienation… feeling alone and unwanted. I think giving your time is equally, or even more important than money.
Today, a man thanked me and told me that a good conversation was better than a hug. …True that. Thank YOU.