There is a church in downtown Kitchener that is making a difference in addressing the problem of homelessness.
St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church has been part of the Kitchener-Waterloo community since 1854.
For more than 170 years, this faithful congregation has had an impact on the world outside its doors through humble ministry, with a special focus on homelessness and poverty. Over the years, that has included House of Friendship’s Potato Blitz, opening its doors as an emergency shelter in winter, or participating in the Coldest Night of the Year walk to support people experiencing homelessness.
Last summer, the church also partnered with St. John’s Kitchen and St. Peter’s Church to provide weekly meals to people living in the nearby homeless encampment.
And for the past three years, this incredible congregation of hope-filled people has also supported House of Friendship’s ShelterCare program through Adopt A Room. Their care and compassion provide 365 days of shelter, rest, healthcare, and other essential support for someone experiencing homelessness.
For Jan Blackburn, lead of the outreach team at St. Andrew’s, all of this intentional mission work in downtown Kitchener is simple: “It’s what Jesus preached, to look after others, to support those who have need. It’s what we’re called to do.”
“And because we’re a downtown church, it’s on our doorstep, literally,” said Jan. Every day, people sleep in the church’s doorways, seeking comfort and shelter for the night. “We see the need every day. We can’t ignore it.”
A statue at the front of the church underlines the heart of this congregation. Called “Homeless Jesus,” it features Jesus sitting on a sidewalk, reaching out his hand, looking for someone to care.
The statue reminds the church, and all who pass by, that we all have a responsibility to care for those in our midst.
Adopt A Room Supporters Provide
If you are interested in learning more about Adopt A Room, please reach out to Development Director Natalie Schill, at natalies@houseoffriendship.org.
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