Walkabout: Back to the Welcome Inn

Dayna, North End Resident and Reader

“I look forward to the always-prompt delivery of the next edition to my mailbox, and to receiving the email alerting me to its availability! I so appreciate that there remains a local community paper at a time when so many others have ceased publication. It’s been a great introduction to the North End!”

Kristina Santone

“Being a part of the North End Breezes board for the past two years has been a privilege. The team does amazing work within the community and serves as a resource hub for all. They are committed, and most importantly, passionate about preserving the North End’s legacy, while also continuing to foster its growth. Whether you are new to the area, or a longtime resident, I encourage you to volunteer with the Breezes in some capacity if you’re able. This team is small but mighty and they are always looking for more support. I’m grateful for the relationships and community I’ve been able to build while serving on the board.

I’ll be joining Welcome Inn as the Executive Director and look forward to taking on a new role in the North End Community while staying connected to The Breezes. “

By Ken Hirter

This month’s Walkabout finds me back at the Welcome Inn Foodbank where l once again met up with the enchanting and wonderful Krista Rao. Krista has been a team member and wearer of many hats since 2015. Presently her role at the Welcome Inn Community Center is that of Foodbank Coordinator and Community Program Coordinator. Krista, Hamilton born and raised, and feels privileged to be able to raise her family in this amazing city, especially here in the North End. She shares her love for creativity, love of Community and an ability to see the potential in all.

Welcome Inn community programs include:
• income tax preparation in English and Arabic
• referrals to community services
• free access to the Sobi Bike Program
• newcomer peer support
• settlement assistance

Welcome Inn would like to welcome two new additions to the team, Newcomer Support Workers Safaa and Yaima to assist Arabic and Spanish speaking community members.

With Thanksgiving on Monday October 10th the Food bank, cash and food donations are welcomed. To make a cash donation please visit the Welcome Inn website https//welcomeinn.ca, select Food Access programs from the drop-down Fund and hit the donation button. For Food donation drop off please call 905-525-5824 during business hours Monday to Friday.
“The best gift you can give is food, love and company.”

I would like to thank Krista and her two Greeters and In-take volunteers, Lynne and Khaled for making my visit a wonderful experience. Welcome Inn is a jewel nestled in the centre of the North End, serving residents since 1966. Welcome Inn is at 40 Wood Street East and can be reached by phone at 905-525-5824 or visit https://welcomeinn.ca .
“The Welcome Inn Community Center is building resilience, promoting wellness and connecting people within the Northend.”
Thanks to all who took part in Part 1 and Part 2 of my Walkabout at the Welcome Inn Community Center and Foodbank.
Till next month, cheers