‘People are in good spirits’
Soul’s Harbour feeding bellies and hearts
When people stop by Soul’s Harbour Rescue Mission they’re often searching for more than a meal. Connecting with other people is one of the main reasons they arrive.
“We’ve reopened the dining room to in-person dining with distancing,” said Matthew Forrest, manager of the Truro location. Other locations are in Halifax and Bridgewater.
“The social aspect here is huge. A large part of what we do is offer community, so when people were able to eat inside again it was a joyful time. People are in good spirits now and a lot of them stay inside here as long as they can.
“The period where we only offered to-go meals gave us breathing room and we made sure everything was just right before we reopened.”
Bagged sandwiches are available for those who aren’t comfortable eating at the centre.
Meals for special dietary needs can often be provided if workers are notified ahead of time.
About 40 people arrive to eat most days, but sometimes there are as many as 90, and during the summer the numbers sometimes reached 110.
“We don’t ask questions; anyone can be a guest,” said Forrest. “If things are tough,
there’s no need to struggle alone. When COVID first started and there were layoffs demand tripled here. We worked hard to keep up but we did it.”
There are currently 31 active volunteers. Some come in often and others assist once or twice a month.
More volunteers are always welcome to help with things like preparing the dining area, serving meals, conversing with clients and helping clean up. The centre has a cook who works regular hours.
The free market, which offers clothing, was closed in January but when it reopens volunteers will be needed to sort items and help people find what they need.
“We’re almost entirely funded by donations,” said Forrest. “Community members really made this place possible.
“During the summer and fall we got a lot of surplus from gardens.”
He expects the mission’s services will be in greater demand as the cost of living rises.
Forrest, who also works as pastor of student ministries at Connection Church in Truro, first walked into Soul’s Harbour as a volunteer. He’s now been the manager for three years.
“It’s been wonderful working here,” he added. “It isn’t where I anticipated being, but it’s been wonderful. We serve a wonderful group of people.”
Food or monetary donations for Soul’s Harbour can be dropped off at 130 King
St. (back door) from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m., Monday to Friday.
The dining area is open to clients from noon until 2 p.m., Monday to Friday. Chapel is offered at 1 p.m. for those who wish to attend.
Proof of vaccination is not required. When the free mart reopens its services will be available from noon until 2 p.m. on Wednesdays and Fridays.