Volunteers pack nearly 48K meals for Indigenous communities

'My favourite part of the event is seeing all generations serving together and having fun at the same time,' says co-ordinator

More than 300 volunteers participated in the annual FORtheHungry event in Barrie and Orillia, packing 47,520 meals for Indigenous communities.Image supplied

NEWS RELEASE
CONNEXUS CHURCH
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Over the weekend, more than 300 volunteers packed 47,520 meals for Indigenous communities in northern Ontario and other local partners. Gathering for their third annual FORtheHungry event in both Barrie and Orillia, Connexus Church worked to make a difference for these families in need.

Teaming up with Kids Against Hunger, friends and family put together meals at Connexus Church in Barrie and Galaxy Cinema in Orillia. Festive music, a photo booth, and some ugly sweaters gave a fun Christmas feel to the day as they bagged over 20,000 more meals than last year.

Though most of the meals were sent to fill needs up north, some will feed clients of The Lighthouse and The Sharing Place. Connexus is glad to support the incredible work these organizations do every day.

“Churches in North America are too often known more for what they are against, so we want the community to know that God is for them, and we are for them, too," pastor Jeff Brodie said.

FORtheHungry has become a fun Christmas tradition at Connexus. Launching into the Christmas season with this event moves the church to get into the corner of those who need extra hope.

Event co-ordinator Christine Birch said, “My favourite part of the event is seeing all generations serving together and having fun at the same time! There’s music and dancing, a little friendly competition, and a bunch of meals get packed, too.”

Connexus is constantly looking for opportunities to come alongside those in the community who need a reminder that they’re not alone. This Christmas season, Connexus Church welcomes the entire community for an extra special Christmas celebration, including activities for kids, great music, and a message of hope.