Strong Fort Erie Neighbourhoods connecting residents in need to local services
August 30, 2024 at 4:06 AM
Strong Fort Erie Neighbourhoods (SFEN) is an organization that assists residents in several ways, one of them being a conduit to other places where there is more help.
And on Wednesday, September 11, at Saint Michael Roman Catholic Church located at 310 Central Avenue, the non-denominational charity will hold its second annual Circle of Support event, which will feature several services and agencies who serve the local community.
“It’s really about helping people to connect with other existing organizations and agencies that support people,” said Theresa Murphy, a retired elementary school principal who sits on the SFEN board of directors.
Service Canada, Bridges Community Health Centre, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Community Living Fort Erie, Community Addiction Services of Niagara, and several other organizations will be in attendance between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. for the event.
“We’re like the bridge, a link,” said Murphy.
SFEN hosts weekly free lunches, also at Saint Michael’s, and serves an average of 250 meals each time.
Once a month, they hand out a bag full of various personal care products, and also offer a vegetable and fruit market twice per month.
The group was founded in 2020 by the late Catherine Mindorff-Facca, a long-time community advocate and volunteer who passed away last May.
In 2024, SFEN became a registered charity, and has more than 50 volunteers behind its cause.
“The more we can help our residents get stronger and live healthier lives, I think the stronger Fort Erie gets,” said Murphy.
SFEN also prepares about 450 lunches each week on behalf of Community Crew that are served at three local elementary schools: Our Lady of Victory, Peace Bridge Public School, and John Brant Public School.
To learn more or donate, please visit strongforterie.com.
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About The Author
Kris Dubé
Kris is a veteran journalist who has worked in Niagara for close to 20 years. He is also a lifelong resident of Fort Erie, a place he plans to call home and raise his family for many more years.
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