Hot Lunch in Gibsons

On Wednesday June 8, the St. Bart’s Food Bank in Gibsons launched its first “Hot Lunch” for  the Sunshine Coast community. Everyone was welcomed…no questions, no barriers, no cost. The goals of this new ministry are two-fold:  provide a nourishing hot-meal using local ingredients to the extent possible; and offer a safe, welcoming environment where people can socialize and reconnect.

Response was enthusiastic:

“Great food. Great service.”

“I joined others for a meal for the first time in 22 months!” 

“The food was so fresh.” 

“You were so good at looking after us!”

Over a dozen volunteers helped make the launch of this ministry a success.  Deacon of the parish, the Reverend Steve Bailey was on hand to welcome people, offer prayer, and ring the church bell to celebrate. Twenty-four people had sit-down meals and 17 meals were given as “take-away.” Leftovers from the meal will be frozen and distributed to folks who arrive at the June Food Bank. In the first four months of 2022, the St.Bart’s Food Bank gave away over 950 kg of fresh produce and 135 kg of fish, chicken and meat.  The new Hot Lunch program is a welcome addition to the St. Bart's food bank ministry.

Financial support for this new ministry comes from the St.Bart’s Food Bank and funds raised by the 2022 Coast Wide Food Bank Drive which are both generously supported by Coastal  residents and local businesses.

Photos submitted