Named after Saint Eugene de Mazenod, the patron saint for the poor, De Mazenod’s Door in Hamilton aims to serve, and has been since 2016.
Operating out of St. Patrick’s Roman Catholic Church, the organization serves over 700 meals a day — but on Wednesday, it reached a dire milestone.
It’s millionth meal went out the door, one the organization says it wish didn’t have to happen.
“It’s a happy moment and a sad moment,” Father Tony O’Dell said.
“Incredible, that you have to serve one million meals, but also an incredibly proud moment because of thousands of volunteers and volunteer hours.”
The program is open 365 days a year. It relies on donations from the community and volunteers — enlisting up to 100 volunteers a day.
“It means a lot to me,” said Catherine Rabarison, one of the program’s chefs. “Especially providing them with good nutritious meals, filling meals, and I feel like that helps sustain them through the day.”