This is not your typical soup kitchen, where hot meals and shelter are provided to homeless people.
The idea behind La Soupière de Rockland (Rockland Soup Kitchen) is to offer support to anyone who needs it.
“It’s no secret that in this economic climate, people are struggling,” said Yvon Larocque, a church member who started the soup kitchen concept to help people across the city. The reality is that people are suffering and many of them are having to make the decision to put food on the table for their families or pay the water or electricity bill. This is a very hard pill to swallow, and it’s happening right here in our community. »
Launched by New Beginning Church, located at 954 Giroux Street in Rockland, La Soupière de Rockland provides support to the homeless, families and individuals struggling to make ends meet.
Larocque is supported by his wife, Brenda, and a group of church volunteers who help run errands and prepare fresh, hot, nutritious meals for people.
Thanks to Rockland Full Bellies, a project that Mr. Larocque helped launch, he discovered how dire the situation was for residents of the municipality of Clarence-Rockland.
The initiative has also established numerous partnerships with other organizations that provide food that volunteers use to prepare meals for those affected.
But it’s not just a place where people come to eat or get takeout.
“We want people to feel comfortable, because we know they are not alone. Having to make difficult decisions about bills or groceries is a lot of people’s experience, Brenda added. You can come here, have a meal, socialize and meet other people. Talking to someone right here in your community can be another type of support. »
Currently, La Soupière de Rockland opens its doors once a week, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at New Beginning Church.
“We believe in the power of community and helping each other,” said Larocque. “We hope that by providing assistance, we can alleviate the stress and financial burden that families in our region may be facing.”
If you or someone you know is in need of a meal, you can contact the soup kitchen through New Beginning Church at 613-446-7586. For donations of food or money, you can also call the church.
New Beginning Church of Rockland is a registered charity in Canada (Charitable Registration Number: 837991686 RR0001) and is affiliated with the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada.
