Cold Weather Street Ministry provides food to those in need during the winter months

From November through March, the Community Response Unit (CRU) serves each Wednesday in front of the old Halifax library on Spring Garden Road. Volunteer Dave Jackson mans the truck each week, often accompanied by a couple of helpers.

Recently, Jamie Hawco and his daughter Emily helped Dave. “We are always on standby in case people aren’t able to come at the last minute. We help each year and enjoy being able to serve those in our community,” says Jamie. His teenage daughter Emily adds, “It’s not something that you get to do every day. It makes me feel good to help when I can.”

“We average around 50 people per week, depending on the weather and if they are able to get out,” says Dave. “People come to get food for themselves, and others who are unable to get to the truck.”

As June eats a bowl of turkey stew in front of the CRU, she says, “After we pay rent there isn’t a lot of money left over. It’s nice to get some food in my belly.”

As the cost of living increases, many people are unable to meet the basic need of food and often go hungry. The CRU aims to reach these people, especially during the winter months. Warm clothing is also kept on the truck in case there is a need.

There is a CRU truck in Saint John that serves throughout the community, as well. Last year they served 3,500 people throughout the city and were present at 20 community events.