Every one seemed to be in good spirits today. I think everyone was on a ' high' ( monetary that is) after last weeks talk about  T'weed.

Linda B. had a great trip to Cape Breton with her sister in law. Yes, travel very different without kids in tow.

Todd Lyons also visited Cape Breton.

Paul told a decent joke about how to get out of the house for some Christmas golf.

Linda thanked Chad for officiating at last weeks meeting.

Katie reminded us to sell Roses

Erica reminded us that Best Bites is happening this coming Sunday. Volunteers are needed  especially on Sunday but also Saturday for set up etc. Ticket sales have been good with only about 30 more to go. If you cannot be there or help then donate a bottle of wine. Call Erica if you can be of service.

 

Linda said that Chef D's dinner in October is sold out. Do not forget to bring your money in.

Chad is the our Vocational Chair this year. It is awards time at 5 of our highschools. Please volunteer to give one of the awards. ( usually two awards / highschool). They are presented at the High School's commencement. So it is an evening in the 2nd or 3rd week of October. Let Chad know if you can help out.

 

Neil Main introduced today's speaker, John Neufeld  who spoke to us about the House of Friendship. He is their executive director.

John began with a personal story and the reason why he is passionate about helping others. His family is from Russia and they came to Canada after WW2. Some family members were left back in Russia.  When he was first in Canada he was not made to feel like he fit in. From this came a need to serve and help members of our society  who do not fit in.

The House of Friendship was started by a group of women in the 1930s to help hobos and transients ( it was the great depression then). Mostly they served food.

Now House of Friendship serves 42,000 annually in Waterloo Region, both urban and rural areas.

They serve in 4 areas: Food. Shelter and Housing. Community Development ( helping people get back on their feet) and Addiction Treatment.

They have 200 staff but 1000 volunteers. Budget is 11 million, 2 million is fundraised.

They are in Cambridge through partnerships with the Food Bank, The Bridges and community groups.

Now they have purchased the vacant Anselma House on Concession in Preston and plan to run and addiction treatment programme there.

John gave a great talk. There is a huge need in our community.

He was thanked by Megan