he 1999-2000 season of Out of the Cold Saturday suppers was supported by St. Margaret-Mary Parish, Sunnyside Wesleyan Church, Trinity Anglican Church and Southminster United Church.
The program ran for 21 weeks and we served 649 meals to an average of 31 per night, with a high of 45 and a low of 17. Cost per meal was $2.31, achieved through many donations of food especially from events held at Southminster. Over 132 different volunteers worked on Saturdays, an increase to 33 per evening from 12 last year from the community.
Our guests continue to appreciate the home-cooked meals and the opportunity to gather and socialize. The steering committee thanks all who helped in any way; those who gave time and effort on Saturdays, who fixed muffins, cupcakes or a vegetarian meal, who made a monetary contribution and all others who contributed to this outreach.
We would also like to mention two other initiatives which have originated from St. Margaret-Mary Parish. They have continued to provide a Sunday Supper and Song program, similar to the Saturday meals. Their second program is the preparation of 25-30 bag lunches (sandwiches, fruit, drinks) which are distributed to "street" people during mid-day on Saturdays and Sundays, reaching a completely different group of people.
Now that the fourth season of the Out of the Cold Saturday suppers is about to begin, we are asking for the continued support of the Old Ottawa South community.
Our 2000-2001 season begins November 4 and will continue to March 31 in the Fellowship Hall of Southminster United Church. We are again hoping to have regular volunteers who come once a month, but would appreciate any help even if only once or twice during the season. Tasks and time commitments are listed below:
If you are interested in helping or to obtain more information, please contact Sharon Blakeman, Coordinator of Volunteers, 730-3266.