What does a magical Christmas mean to you?
Lots of presents under a fully decorated Christmas Tree? The dining table topped with an abundance of delicious treats? Numerous holiday parties full of friends, family and lasting memories? Someone to stand under the mistletoe with and share the love? That sounds very magical indeed, and for those fortunate enough to partake in even a few of these cherished activities it surely is.
But what about the numerous people for whom the Christmas season is but a dream taken in from afar?
For the homeless and vulnerable members of our community, a magical Christmas means shelter from the cold, a hot meal, and the companionship of people that care about their welfare and well-being.
Christmas is a season of giving, a time of gratitude, for our own good fortune and for the chance to make a real difference for people that truly appreciate the help.
Good Shepherd Ministries has been providing hospitality and compassion to the homeless since 1963. For over 60 years we have been the place that people can come to shelter from the cold, to receive a hot nutritious meal, and a friendly ear.
We provide over 900 meals every day of the year to people that are hungry, and we are grateful for the opportunity to do so, because receiving a hot meal can plant a seed of hope that the future might be a little bit better.
There are over 12,000 people in Toronto for whom “home” is a bus shelter, a flimsy tent, or an open doorway. Without adequate shelter, it is difficult to build a life in which Christmas merits any consideration at all. Everyone deserves a home, a real home, and we must do whatever we can to provide shelter for those in need.
During this festive Christmas season, please consider the plight of our vulnerable community members and contribute what you can to help make the New Year brighter.
Wishing you a blessed Christmas, where God’s grace brings warmth, hope, and abundant joy.