It is obviously an understatement to suggest that a great deal has changed in the lives of many, many people across the world since the Covid-19 pandemic was declared just over twelve months ago. For the people of Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside that has meant, among other things, less opportunity to Read more…
In April of this year, I mentioned in a previous submission that I was feeling fortunate to be able to continue to assist in the efforts at The Door is Open during the pandemic. More that six months later, I continue to feel fortunate to have been able to participate, Read more…
It has been so very heart-warming over the last few weeks to witness the level of support that we have been receiving at The Door is Open from many supporters with respect to the supply of sandwiches and sweets. Volunteers and staff are most grateful for the assistance and our Read more…
Makiko, a parishioner at Holy Cross Parish, in Burnaby recalls, “ It was on Friday, March 27, after I read the article in the BC Catholic https://bccatholic.ca/news/catholic-van/pray-for-homeless-forced-from-shelters-by-covid-19-hostel-head I saw Sister Chita’s loving genuine smile disappearing, and that made my heart ache. I met Sister Chita and Frances, the DIO co-managers, in 2017 Read more…
We are very touched and grateful for the support of our schools! We let the press release from STA speak for itself: Generosity Abounds on the North Shore During the COVID-19 Crisis A record number of sandwiches and baked goods were donated by the St. Thomas Aquinas School and Alumni Read more…
I feel fortunate to have been able to continue, as part of a small group of staff and volunteers, to assist in the efforts at the Door is Open during this most challenging time. We want everyone to know that we have been, and will continue to, take many precautions Read more…
It does not matter if you are serving indoors or outdoors because when you are called to serve in the Downtown Eastside you cannot completely sever the ties with those whom you serve. A warm welcoming smile still accompanies the “Hi” and “Hello”, answering an invitation to help old men Read more…
Carrie Underwood’s 2005 hit “Jesus Take the Wheel” immediately came to mind when I was asked to write a Reflection on my experience as a volunteer at The Door is Open. I’ve been working in the kitchen for almost eight years, organizing, prepping and serving meals to our women’s program Read more…
I have been volunteering at the Door Is Open since one morning in October of 2012 when my friend, Alice, and I walked into the facility and met with the manager, Julia Ruggier. Her eyes lit up, because two of their long-standing Wednesday volunteers had recently moved away and retired. Read more…
When I first started volunteering at the Door is Open, my regular Wednesday mornings quickly became something I looked forward to. The community that was created in the art room was strong and flavoured with everyone’s unique styles. Something I particularly enjoyed was when I would bring in a project for that day Read more…