Our "Soup Kitchen"
St. Joseph’s Hospitality Centre is a “Soup Kitchen” sponsored by the Sisters of St. Joseph and supported and operated by the generous giving of numerous friends. The Centre is located on Dundas Street in downtown London and provides meals and friendship to those in need — who are uprooted for whatever reason. The Centre is also a gathering place where all participants —guests and volunteers — seek to journey in communion with one another.
The image which describes our life-giving experiences and ministry at St. Joseph’s Hospitality Centre is expressed in our logo. The logo is an image of the philosophy of the Centre: the twelve people surrounding a round table indicates equality regardless of race, age, sex or religion; they are united in the mutual relationship of shared humanity; the black within the circle represents the economic, social and political weakness and injustice in our society; the bright centre is the breaking and sharing of bread, from ancient times and world-wide, an expression of acceptance, respect and care.
Our goals are to meet:
- physical needs by providing food, referral for shelter and referral for clothing;
- friendship needs by encouraging interaction among guests and volunteers, involving guests in upkeep and activities at the Centre and inviting participation in meetings of guests and volunteers;
- spiritual needs by promoting self-worth and healing through relating with dignity and respect.
More than a meal...
"Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of care, all of which have the potential to turn a life around." ~Leo Buscaglia
The above words are posted on the bulletin board at St. Joseph's Hospitality Centre in London. They encapsulate the values of the soup kitchen which serves nutritious meals to those who are experiencing hard times and are lonely, hungry and without adequate resources.
For a visit or to learn more about volunteering...
St. Joseph’s Hospitality Centre relies on the generous contributions of its more than 120 volunteers. If you would like to know more about its activities, arrange a visit, or learn more about the worthwhile volunteer experience it offers, contact Bill Payne.
