Rescue Missions in Canada Celebrate Thanksgiving

Country Observes the Holiday October 12

In 1879, Canadians started celebrating Thanksgiving annually, following an official proclamation by Parliament. The holiday, which has roots back to the 1750s and is observed this year on Monday, October 12, began as a way to give thanks for a bountiful harvest and to commemorate the end of the Seven Years’ War, according to an article by Historica Canada.  

Canada’s Thanksgiving draws traditions from both European and American harvest celebrations. With the holiday fast approaching, AGRM member missions in Canada are quickly preparing for the celebration.

Michelle Porter, executive director at Souls Harbour Rescue Mission in Halifax, Nova Scotia, says this year’s Thanksgiving meal at the mission might not be traditional, but it will still be a treat. The mission’s kitchen is currently undergoing renovations, which means no place to cook the usual turkey and stuffing. But that isn’t stopping them from feeding around 350 guests. The mission is planning to have a barbeque with help from local churches and volunteers. “We are calling it an ‘indoor picnic’ and have a number of people helping to make it a success, “ says Michelle. Guests will also leave with a toiletry kit, three new shirts, and an edible table favor. 

On the other side of the country, at Union Gospel Mission in Vancouver, British Columbia, president Bill Mollard and his team are also preparing for Thanksgiving. The mission plans to serve more than 3,000 meals at three locations. They will stick with the traditional Thanksgiving meal by serving 2,500 pounds of turkey, 800 pounds of stuffing, 3,900 dinner rolls, 600 pumpkin pies, plus side dishes. Even with the large numbers, the mission’s main goal is “showing every guest they matter” and “inspiring miracles.” 

AGRM’s membership includes seven rescue missions in Canada. To find the Canadian mission nearest you, go to www.agrm/locate, choose Canada in the country field, and click the search button. 

Photo credit: Canadian Flag via photopin (license)