Talking and warmth filled the packed room at a charity as people enjoyed hot gravy and turkey aromas Winnipeg On Monday, a charity hosted hundreds of people around paper plates for a meal Easter lunch.
Tessa Blaikie Whitecloud, CEO of Siloam Mission, expected around 700 people to attend the event Siloam Mission — an organization that helps the homeless — started preparing for the event two months ago.
“I know we had 240 turkeys and close to 300 pounds of potatoes. I remember looking at all the cabbage and thinking, 'That’s a lot,'” she said.
Whitecloud said that within the first half-hour, 750 plates were filled with turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, coleslaw, cranberry sauce, veggies, buns, and cabbage.
However, she stated that the meal is about more than just food.
“It’s also a chance for people to connect to the Easter promise and to celebrate the hope and renewal it brings,” she said.
Alex Thomas, a senior support staff at Siloam, estimated that 70% of the attendees were from the organization’s drop-in centre and nearby shelters.
He emphasized the importance of this Easter lunch for their humanity.
“It’s crucial to demonstrate care for people and come together on a human level to break down barriers,” he said.
“Many people come here seeking connection,” he added.
Due to cost inflation, this year’s meal was a bit more expensive, but the donors made it possible for them, according to Whitecloud.
She mentioned that Siloam serves three meals a day and always needs volunteers to assist.
“If people are inspired and want to volunteer in the kitchen, they can do so individually or as part of a group. They can help out on any day, not just on a special occasion,” she said.
