Refuge Extends Hours and Continues to Serve the Homeless in Woodstock

Wednesday, 18 March 2020 12:46

While most are closing their doors, The Refuge operated by Trumpet of Truth is keeping theirs open, and even expanding their hours providing meals for the homeless population in the community.

WOODSTOCK - While most are closing their doors, The Refuge operated by Trumpet of Truth is keeping theirs open, and even expanding their hours providing meals for the homeless population in the community.

The drop-in centre is typically only open on Wednesdays. The group felt the need was there to extend hours because most of the local community kitchens have shut down during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Rene McIntyre, Founder and Pastor at Trumpet of Truth Christian Ministries says it was a no brainier to stay open and to expand to five days a week, especially because it is still quite cold outside, she stressed that there is more to what they do than offer a free breakfast and lunch.

"We do court support, we help reconcile families and help to connect people to other resources, we do personal mentorship with those that are wanting to overcome addiction and poverty, there is a lot to what we do actually."

The volunteers are the back bone of the organization. With 10 strong, they are welcoming more volunteers to help so they can continue to provide these services.

McIntyre says the ideal volunteer is someone with a strong immune system during these times, someone who has an open mind and open heart, and who are ready to serve their community.

"We have had people from other communities as far as Kitchener coming to volunteer with us. They are in the kitchen, cooking, cleaning dishes, cleaning the floors and making sure everyone is washing their hands and sanitizing, its really amazing, people just want to help. Volunteers simply need to have genuine compassion and are motivated by love and do not need to be of any religious denomination.”

The Refuge is always welcoming donations, monetary or otherwise. Currently they have a freezer stocked with food and keep faith that they will be able to provide for the days to come. They are however, in need of paper towel right now.

When asked about staying compliant with the government’s recommendations, McIntyre says they get about 40 people per day and all are spread out so no one is at risk.

To donate or to volunteer, visit their web site at trumpetoftruth.org. The Refuge at Trumpet of Truth is located at 425 Dundas St. in Woodstock and is open Monday to Friday from 8a.m. to 4p.m.