11th Anniversary for Sooke’s Vital Vittles Lunches, Friday Nov 21, 2014
On November 21, 2003 the first Vital Vittles meal was served in the basement of the old Holy Trinity Church to 25 guests. That first menu included soup and sandwiches, fruit and cupcakes, along with a variety of hot and cold beverages and an opportunity to meet for a while in a warm and safe place.
It was initiated by a diverse group of citizens, Rev. Eerkes, Andy Carrier( the Pizza Man) Leo Myers, Lynda Rose, Bill (the sign maker) and a few others, who recognized that there was a need to serve a simple nutritious meal to those who might not otherwise have one, all provided for free and without question.
We are thankful for those who brought the vision to life and faithfully administered it. The many volunteers, past and present who have given their energy and skills, along with the Coordinators: Lynda Rose (2003-5), Shirley Roodbol (2005-12), Deacon Wally Eamer (2012-14), and Pam Day (2014- present) who have guided the program and continued the Vision.
The food is served without ceremony to about 60 guests each Friday. People are totally accepted here. It is a deliberately non-denominational event with an emphasis on serving a wide range of people, young and old, with compassion and human fellowship. The program was designed to embrace the whole community, pulling together different people who might not otherwise have an opportunity to meet one another. Guests and volunteers develop friendships and understanding as a by-product of sharing a meal together.
The menu has grown a bit over the years to provide a salad and a hot meal in addition to the soup and dessert, thanks to the support of our faithful and generous donors, and our terrific dedicated group of volunteers.
Right from its first year we have received great support from the whole community, especially from Andy the Pizza Man who provides salad fixings every week, and the special treat of pizzas once a month. In addition we gratefully received ongoing support of various kinds and are indebted to several anonymous donors, Sun River Community Gardens, Mustard Seed Food Bank, Celtic Circle Sooke, MLA John Horgan, Rotary Club, T’Sou-ke Band, Village Foods, Western Foods, Vienna Bakery, Reading Room Cafe, CASA, Sooke Food Chi, The Sooke News Mirror and the Voice newsletter.
We are thankful for this community of Sooke, and for the Parish of Holy Trinity who continues to support us by providing a warm and safe environment for Vital Vittles.
Pam Day