Outreach
Outreach at MacKay
Regular outreach initiatives such as support to Centre 507, to refugee families, to various organizations through fundraising like the “Loaves and Fishes” lunches, meditation circle, and provision of worship services in seniors’ residences take place regularly. Individuals take on fundraising initiatives (e.g. support for Cornerstone, school supplies in Nicaragua, schools in Africa) and many members financially support these activities that are not initiated or directed by the church. Social justice issues are also very important.
Benevolent Fund
Under the auspices of the Minister, this special fund is monitored by the Finance chair through the office administrator who disperses the funds to anonymous recipients. Its purpose is to help people within MacKay and the community who are in financial need. Food vouchers are purchased for dispersal by the Service and Outreach team during the year, and the Pastoral Care team distributes food vouchers at Christmas. Special offerings including the community Christmas Eve service and specially designated donations by individuals make this possible.
Centre 507
On the third Tuesday of each month, members of the congregation go to Centre 507, a drop in centre housed in Centretown United Church. People in the congregation prepare food (sandwiches, desserts, etc.) and donate fruit, cheese and prepared food which we serve to the clients while engaging in conversation with them. We also give special donations of money, clothing and hygiene items.
MULTIFAITH HOUSING INITIATIVE
MHI brings together a coalition of faith groups, local business, civil society, the City of Ottawa, federal and provincial governments to establish innovative, collaborative solutions to create affordable housing. Safe, secure, affordable housing empowers and transforms people's lives by improving health outcomes, educational achievement, social inclusion and economic opportunities.
NICARAGUA SCHOOL PROJECT
Twice a year, Nicaragua School Project (Si Quieres, Pueden Reir) buys school supplies for children living in poverty in Nicaragua. Without these supplies, many of them would have to drop out of school. Joyce Dubuc, from MacKay United, goes to Nicaragua, and with the help of volunteers there, buys, packs and delivers the supplies directly to the children. The only admin cost is hiring a driver and truck to take us to the schools. Donations can be made to MacKay, with a notation that the donation is for Nicaragua.
THE WELL / LA SOURCE
Located in St. John the Evangelist Church, 154 Somerset St. West, The Well/La Source is a day program for women and their children. It offers a sense of community with other women, social, recreational and educational programs, chaplaincy support, crisis intervention, community information and group support.