Lunch at My Place
(LAMP)
COMMUNITY MEAL PROGRAM
On May 1, 2001, a handful of ladies from Trinity decided to start a new program by handing out simple brown-bag sandwich lunches to those in need in the community. This initial program was called LAMP (Lunch at My Place). It eventually developed into a sit down, dine-in hot lunch in Trinity Hall. This continued until the pandemic began.
During the pandemic, we found many alternate methods to continue serving a hot meal in line with other churches in this community. Lunch switched to dinner. The name LAMP remains as a signature Trinity program. Guests are very familiar with this original title. In November 2023, we are celebrating the one year anniversary of our return to indoor dining. Our supper program is highly successful and runs every Tuesday from 4:00 pm to 5:30 pm. Our hired cook works hard to ensure we provide a hot, nutritious and well-balanced dinner featuring a meat dish as well as a vegetarian option. We continue to serve a population of unhoused or underhoused people or those who have food security issues. Currently, there are an average of 50 guests each week and approximately 80 meals are served.
Complementing the program are several donated clothing tables in Trinity hall. This area is now referred to as the “clothing corner”. We so appreciated receiving, on a regular basis, men’s and women’s clothing from various congregants, friends and neighbours. Clothing items are kept seasonal with heavier clothing available during the winter months and lighter items on display at other times of the year.
We are very grateful for all of our hard working volunteers and always enjoy meeting new people that come forward to help out (training is provided). We are especially short on those who have their current Food Handler’s Certificate as we must ensure at least 1 volunteer per shift is on-site with this status. If you are interested in learning more about our program and can commit to spending 3-4 hours of your time on a Tuesday, please contact Leslie Down at lddown@rogers.com or 905-898-7832.
Leslie and Austin Down
LAMP Supper Program Coordinators