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Thirty years ago today, Meadow Lake Outreach Ministries opened with The Door of Hope (Photo credit/MeadowLakeNOW Staff).
SERVING THE COMMUNITY

Meadow Lake Outreach Ministries celebrates 30 years

Oct 21, 2022 | 10:57 AM

Meadow Lake Outreach Ministries is celebrating 30 years of serving the community of Meadow Lake. On October 21, 1992, the ministry opened their door for the first time.

Meadow Lake Outreach Ministries executive director Natinis Bundschuh says it started small with perhaps its best-known program, The Door of Hope.

“Thirty years ago, there was no food bank. There was nothing except a couple of tables and some chairs. And the Door of Hope Property. And a coffee pot.”

Fast forward 30 years and the outreach program has grown wildly beyond its humble beginnings. Bundschuh says they have six main programs. They now run a supportive living program, a daycare, an apartment building, a food bank, a soup kitchen, and a thrift store.

Every day, the soup kitchen provides breakfast, serves lunch, and provides snacks in the afternoon to those that need food, a warm place, and company. Bundschuh says people use it every day.

Staff prepare lunch at the Door of Hope in Meadow Lake (Photo credit/MeadowLakeNOW Staff).

“People that are lonely. Don’t have anywhere to go. Maybe don’t have fifty cents for a cup of coffee. They can come and get a free cup of coffee here.”

About 10 years ago the ministry started a food bank. Several local grocers provide daily donations along with others from the community. Dozens of food hampers are prepared daily for those that need them.

Right now, the food bank space is being renovated to make it more efficient and safe for food storage. Wooden shelves are being replaced with metal ones and an epoxy floor that is easy to keep clean will be poured soon.

The apartment rentals, assisted living and daycare provide safe accommodation and programming for families.

A Thrift store is a recent addition, opening in late 2020. It operates with part-time hours and is a great place to find new and used goods including clothing.

Bundschuh says she’s noticed an increased need for their services as more people are looking for help. The Outreach Ministry is always looking for help from the community. Cash, food, and clothing donations are always welcome and there are plenty of volunteer opportunities available too.

ian.roach@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @IanRoachSK