Gathering Place executive looks for better days ahead after cutbacks

Dennis Chippa is trying to stay optimistic. 

The executive director of The Gathering Place soup kitchen in North Bay with support from the Board of Directors, made the tough call to cut several staff members and decrease their meals to five meals a week, one a day and lunch only starting September 1.  

Chippa also admitted he has taken a wage cut as part of the process as the not-for-profit organization has struggled in 2024 with inceasing demand and a lack of funding. 

He says it has not been easy dealing with the public criticism of the Gathering Place.  

"it has been difficult on us, it has been difficult with the board to see the online comments which have been so negative," he admitted. 

See related: Gathering Place in crisis mode. Demand 'insanely high'

See related: Gathering Place on Alert. Cutting back to survive

However, Chippa did feel some positivity after Sunday's fundraising dinner at the Davedi Club.  

"To know how much the community appreciates what we do and how many people personally have checked in in the last week," said Chippa.  

"It has been really nice for me and to each other. A lot of folks have been checking in with the staff. Volunteers have been checking with staff - both those who are staying and who have to go making sure they are okay and I think that has been very heartwarming to see, but also to see the community response to what is going to happen. I have had a number of conversations at the Davedi Club with groups."

Chippa says many who support them are hoping this is just a temporary challenge and The Gathering Place will be able to increase its meals when the financial situation improves.