Cornerstone

Cornerstone is one of four Community Ministries of the Anglican Diocese of Ottawa and has provided emergency shelter and supportive housing for homeless women in Ottawa since 1983.  Volunteers from St. Matthew's participate in the Weekend Meal Program by preparing and serving one weekend lunch every month throughout the year for the 50-60 residents of the Shelter.

Out of the Cold

Led by Southminster United Church in Old Ottawa South and supported by a number of neighbouring churches (including St. Matthew's) this program offers a welcoming environment, a hot meal and cheerful fellowship to people in need during the cold months.  Suppers are organized every Saturday from November to March.  Each year St. Matthew's provides a complete team of people for two of the suppers to host, cook, serve and clean up after the meal.  In addition, St. Matthew's provides annual financial support and, in the fall, undertakes a month-long collection of non-perishable food items needed for the supper program.

Baking Program

During consultations with our existing partners, it became clear that baked goods would be greatly appreciated, as many agencies do not have the facilities or time to do this.  St. Matthew's is working towards organizing a baking program that will support the Cornerstone Weekend Meal Program and, where possible, provide additional baked goods that can be delivered to other social service agencies with whom we work (e.g. Youth Services Bureau, Harmony House, Centre 454).

Food Bank Collections

The Centretown Churches Social Action Committee (CCSAC) represents some 25 churches who together have been working for social justice in our community since 1967.  They have undertaken many initiatives on behalf of the poor and isolated in our community, but today theri main project is the Centretown Emergency Food Centre, whose mandate is to serve the needy in the area.  St. Matthew's continues to be a member of CCSAC, provides financial support annually, and organizes weekly collections for the Emergency Food Centre.