Executive Director, Community Counselling Centre of Nipissing Alan McQuarrie provides a firsthand recount of his personal experience dealing with the homeless population in the community.
“On a sweltering Saturday evening in August, as I stood at the serving table with tongs in hand, I witnessed a powerful display of humanity's potential for kindness and empathy. The scene was set at a local church, where volunteers from various congregations gathered to provide regular suppers for the homeless in our community. Little did I know that this night would become a profound reminder of the significance of dignity and compassion in our lives.
As the clock struck 5 p.m., the doors to the church swung open, and a diverse group of individuals walked in. Some were wearing heavy sweaters and hoodies, while others donned shorts despite the heat. The common thread that bound them all was the shared experience of homelessness. They entered, sunburned and sweaty.
The meal, lovingly prepared by a dedicated team of volunteers, comprised a mix of home-baked and processed foods. Every dish was handled meticulously, adhering to health regulations, and wrapped with care by gloved hands.
Serving food was a common theme with many of the volunteers having come from the fast-food industry, for some, in the not-so-distant past. It didn’t take long for the stories to come out. One person shared how she was yelled at by a driver of an expensive car because the restaurant was out of peppermint topping. Others grimaced as they recounted run-ins with unhappy customers. “It comes with the job” they said.
Soon, a large crowd of people joined the queue at the serving table. The line moved slowly as people took time to get large scoops of potato salad, desserts, hot dogs, and coffee or juice. There was no pushing. No rudeness. As I dropped large pretzels on already full plates, person after person said, “thank you.” There were children in the crowd. They played quietly until they realized that you could get “seconds” of desserts. Even then, they asked permission and showed only the best manners.
One young man stopped to talk. He had accidentally damaged his tent the previous day and did not have any other means for shelter. “I may have to go to the homeless shelter,” he said. Then without hesitation, “do you mind if I have another piece of cake?”
Of the 160 people who had passed through the line, I realized that they didn’t just come for the food. They received a healthy portion of dignity and compassion, heaped on their plates along with the potato salad. Each person in the line was struggling with a mix of poverty, addictions, mental health, trauma, shame, fatigue, fear, and a host of other issues. But all I could see was polite gratitude.
As Canadians, we often look to the government to address issues like poverty, homelessness and mental health. However, the needs of our fellow citizens extend beyond the capacity of government resources alone. Dignity and compassion are not commodities that come with a high price tag. When a community unites to provide these essential supports, everyone benefits.
The Community Counselling Centre of Nipissing plays a vital role in assisting individuals who have experienced trauma, mental health disorders, and addiction. While our interventions necessitate expertise and multidisciplinary approaches, one truth remains evident: healing cannot take root without dignity and compassion. This spotlight feature shined a light on the incredible work we do, serving over 2,500 individuals annually.
We serve people seeking to overcome trauma, gain control over a gambling addiction, prevent substances from ruining their lives, recover from abusive relationships, create safety for their children, and improve their lives. My deepest respect is reserved for those who ask us for help and for our amazing staff who help them.
In this world, where challenges can sometimes overshadow the brightness of our shared humanity, let us remember the power of dignity and compassion. May we continue to come together, offering a hand to those in need, and weaving a tapestry of support that uplifts us all.”
Connect with the Community Counselling Centre of Nipissing online or book an appointment here.