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A warm meal, shared tables, and a welcoming space will be at the heart of the city this Friday, December 19th, as the Community Outreach Dinner returns to St. Thomas Anglican Church on Flora Street.
These dinners run on the third Friday of every month and are open to anyone in the community — no registration, no questions asked.
The volunteers who host the dinners operate under a broader umbrella known as the Elgin – St. Thomas Food Providers Network, a group of agencies, churches, and individuals working together to address food insecurity across the city and county.
Co-Chair Cathy Grondin shares that this month’s dinner is made possible with added support from a generous community sponsor.
The Friday dinners typically bring in between 125 and 200 people, with additional takeout meals provided. Grondin adds that thanks to Debbie Hamilton’s sponsorship, guests are in for a delicious menu Friday.
Grondin shares that this week attendees can also expect hot soup upon arrival, a full sit-down dinner, and a welcoming atmosphere.
In addition to food, guests will have access to free clothing and essential items, and are encouraged to stay and connect with neighbours. Grondin says the evening is as much about community and companionship as it is about nourishment.
The outreach dinners themselves have deep roots in the community, dating back to 1997, and have continued through church transitions and growing demand. Many guests and volunteers have been attending for years – some even across generations.
Through collaboration, the network helps ensure meals are available somewhere in the community nearly every day of the week — from sit-down dinners to take-away meals at different locations, including churches and community hubs.
Grondin says the strength of the network lies in cooperation and flexibility, with groups stepping in to support one another as needs arise and resources fluctuate. For her, the most meaningful moments of the work come from seeing relationships form and a sense of belonging grow.
Community members interested in supporting the program are encouraged to get in touch with Grondin.
The Community Outreach Dinner will take place on Friday, December 19th, at St. Thomas Anglican Church, 22 Flora Street, with doors opening at 4:30 p.m. and the meal served at 5 p.m. Everyone is welcome.
Written by: Kennedy Freeman
