Strong Fort Erie Neighbourhoods looking to add to its team of volunteers

Strong Fort Erie Neighbourhoods (SFEN) has about 50 people donating their time to the non-profit organization’s cause, but more are certainly welcome.

SFEN hosts weekly free lunches on Wednesdays at Saint Michael’s Parish Hall and serves an average of 250 meals each time.

They also hand out bags full of various personal care products and offer a vegetable and fruit market.

The group was founded in 2020 by the late Catherine Mindorff-Facca–a long-time community advocate and volunteer who passed away last May–and in 2024, SFEN became a registered charity.

A recent gathering held by the group showed appreciation for its volunteers, reminding them that they are making a difference, said the organization in a statement to Fort Erie Radio.

“We are living in an unprecedented time of need when the importance of volunteers is felt more keenly than ever for SFEN and its food security outreach programs,” said volunteer lead Bernie Lalor-Morton.

SFEN is now helping hundreds of people living with food insecurity, a disability, being a newcomer or with the challenges of aging.

Volunteers help to distribute fresh fruits and vegetables twice per month, as well as ones who meet and greet and make sure that every visitor to the St. Michael’s Hall at 310 Central Avenue is “made to feel loved, cared for and important,” said Lalor-Morton.

SFEN also has a team of outreach volunteers who bring meals and other essential items to those who live on the streets.

Volunteers are the “heartbeat” of the organization, said Lalor-Morton.

“The interesting thing is that it is not just about those we serve,” she added. “We hear over and over how volunteering has blessed the people doing the work.”

There is a form available at strongforterie.com to fill out for those interested in volunteering.

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