Embracing the Spirit of Giving and Community at St. John’s Kitchen

On December 27th and 28th, 2023, a crew of 30 Green Party volunteers gathered to embody the spirit of giving at St. John’s Kitchen, an initiative of the Working Centre and the Anglican church where people can gather indoors and receive a hot meal.

To these individuals who devoted their time and energy this holiday season, we extend our heartfelt gratitude. Our Green Party crew supported the staff and volunteers with various cleaning and serving tasks. Everyone rolled up their sleeves when Amy – one of the fantastic St. John’s Kitchen staff – asked us to complete tasks which they hadn’t been able to accomplish in the day-to-day hustle of the busy kitchen.

Beyond the meals offered, St. John’s Kitchen provides a unique “third space” fostering informal conversations and relationships. Its culture is shaped by the patrons it serves, rooted in the local street culture. This approach reflects the positive aspects of street culture, providing a gathering space and a profound sense of belonging for its patrons. It’s a space where both patrons and volunteers have the opportunity to be part of a supportive community, exchange experiences, and engage in discussions about the issues intertwined with the unique daily experiences and challenges that they encounter.

The ethos of St. John’s Kitchen isn’t solely about meals; it’s about creating an inclusive haven where everyone is embraced without judgment. It’s a place where conversations transcend boundaries, cultures intermingle, and understanding blossoms. The volunteers’ dedication goes beyond serving food; it fosters an environment where empathy and understanding flourish.

The impact of St. John’s Kitchen also extends far beyond providing meals. It’s a sanctuary that nurtures human connections and understanding. It’s a testament to the strength of community and the ripple effect that acts of kindness generate. Our Green Party volunteers were witness to that this holiday season.

Amidst the invaluable work that St. John’s Kitchen does year-round, lies an acknowledgment of the underlying challenges we face as a community. While the dedication of staff and volunteers directly aids our community, we recognize the pressing need to address the root issues: a poisoned drug supply, the crucial lack of mental health support, and the challenge of housing affordability. These issues are why it is important for us as individuals to do what we can to support the efforts of places like the Working Centre and St John’s Kitchen, but also for us to advocate and ensure that there are broader legislative changes that can work to diminish the needs.

As Mike Morrice advocates to address these systemic challenges, we invite you to join us in our local efforts. Your contribution to this cause, whether through donation or volunteering, can make an immense difference. Consider supporting the Working Centre, which offers essential services addressing these core issues. Your support, no matter the size, amplifies the impact and paves the way for a brighter, more inclusive future for all.

Let us march forward with a unified purpose—to not only continue the invaluable work of St. John’s Kitchen but also to address the pressing issues our community faces. Your involvement today can shape a better tomorrow. Join us, and together, let’s build a community where everyone feels seen, heard, and supported.

See Mike Morrice’s advocacy on: