Thanks to a charitable organization, inner-city streets have been filled with hope for 80 years.
The Hope Mission celebrates eight decades of lending a hand to less fortunate Edmontonians this year, and officials say it wouldn’t be possible without keeping a holistic approach in mind.
“Sure, it all starts with handing out a sandwich, but goes as far as teaching people how to care for themselves again,” said spokesman Peter Gerber.
The mission began at the dawn of the Great Depression in 1929 as a soup kitchen, serving thousands of displaced men and women.
Today, the charity provides more than 80 per cent over the city’s shelter services, employs 180 staff, and assisted by over 1,500 volunteers every year.
With two ministry vans patrolling the streets seven days a week, the mission is known for providing aid on the front lines. Other initiatives include a thrift store, camp for underprivileged youth, and Edmonton’s largest skate park.
“But for the grace of God, some people fall off the path,” Gerber said. “We’re a faith-based organization here to help pick people up.”
