To encourage congregations, youth groups, and Christian agencies to invest time and creativity in transformative mission on the first two issues, More Than Gold has secured small grants. Click here>>
Shalom Seekers is a ministry of City in Focus supported by generous individuals, businesses and congregations.
Shalom Seekers recieves $15,000 grant
VANCITY Community Foundation is supporting the development of materials that will guide congregations and non-profits in how best to develop non-profit housing.
The total project cost is $30,000 so funds are still being sought. Some of these materials will be posted as they are developed.
Reflections from my DTES window
Changing lives through offering more than just support, offering opportunities. “Something to eat, somewhere to sleep, and somebody that gives a damn”. That was the cry etched as graffiti on the wall of a building not far from here.
The sense of hopelessness in such a comment is palpable. Mission Possible is working hard to develop supports and opportunities that move people out of cycles of homelessness, poverty, and addiction. Find out more at www.mission-possible.ca.
Intentional Friendships
By Karl Johnston, Outreach Worker with Crossroads Community Project in east Vancouver.
Hendrick was sitting amongst a group of individuals guzzling mouthwash near the Broadway Sky Train Station. When I approached them, he immediately started up a conversation with me. He told me that he had once been sober for five years. I asked him how it had felt, hoping to rekindle his desire to be sober again. He replied without hesitation, "Health-wise it was great but Karl, I didn't have any friends. I was lonely." He pointed to the people he was sitting with and said, "These guys are my friends." His response stumped me. I did not know what to say next. I had often noticed the strong ties of friendship within this "crew" of hardcore alcoholics. How was Hendrick going to find friends like these once he sobered up?
The 2010 Olympics are the first to make sustainability a guiding value and objective in all aspects of the event. 
