Editor:
I am following up to the article on homelessness in the community of South Surrey/White Rock (On the Brink, Peace Arch News, March 18).
There were many support sources mentioned, but there is another one that is highly attended. It is a large community dinner program at Gracepoint Community Church.
The number of people attending has grown significantly over the years and is now up to 200 people, who live in White Rock, Surrey and beyond, who gather every Sunday evening for a meal, some worship and socialization. It is run by volunteers (no paid staff) who participate in the preparation, serving and clean up of the meals, along with other volunteers.
The dinner program has been taking place for about 15 years and is held every Sunday night at 5 p.m. at the church.
Relationships are built, sustained with help or resource-sharing with volunteers where needed. The program gives the individuals a place to come that is supportive and positive, regardless of the person’s background. Many are facing a variety of life circumstances and I’m sure some people would be interested in filling in the surveys. It’s also likely that some of the individuals would be willing to talk about the subject of homelessness.
Hopefully, the right resources will be put into place to meet the ongoing needs of this significant dilemma.
Kathy O’Connor, White Rock