By Keenan Weaver
Volunteers are busy slicing, dicing and freezing for this year’s Inn from the Cold program at Bridge Street United Church in Belleville.
Members involved are currently working to make the transition from their regular year-round program to their winter meal plans.
They aim to offer hot meals for anyone in the Belleville area, and the winter program runs from mid January through to February.
Carol Leslie, the church’s administrative assistant, said they serve over 5,000 people throughout the year, and usually sit between 100 and 125 a night during the Inn from the Cold program.
Leslie said the number of volunteers usually increases in the weeks leading up to the winter program, and so far they’ve been “scurrying and hustling” to process the fresh produce they’ve been donated.
“It involves freezing and blanching the produce so we can use them for hot meals throughout the program,” she said.
A lot of the food they get is donated locally. Farmers and residents have been generous this year, according to Leslie.
Volunteers usually work three shifts a week, with the occasional “cook off” to showcase their special skills.
The Inn from the Cold program provides hot meals every night of the week, and is open to any and all residents who need one.
Leslie said they provide the free meals to help ease the stress of electrical bills, rent and any other expenses. They also accept donations to help pay for the costs.
The program always gets good reviews and thanks from the community, and the church is always thankful for extra help or donations, she said.
“We’re really grateful for the volunteers and for the support from the community.”