Shelter Meal Project at St. Ignatius Church

Mission Statement

The purpose of the St. Ignatius Shelter Meal Program is to foster community, lift the souls and nourish the spirits of homeless people and volunteers. We believe that a shared meal is one of the most fundamental forms of human interaction and that a fine meal, carefully prepared, is an act of love. We recognize that the sharing of a great meal can be healing and transforming for both the body and spirit. Our goal is not just to feed homeless persons, but to create a temporary oasis from the harsh realities of life on the street -- an environment of warmth, hospitality, compassion, and fun where people can find a moment to relax, regain strength, and renew their self-respect and purpose. It is also our goal to build community within the parish, to forge bonds with the broader community, and to develop solidarity and understanding with the community of homeless people. Just as we would for guests in our own homes, we strive to create an atmosphere of warmth, fun, and compassion by making the dining room attractive with table cloths, flowers, real plates and utensils, and music- but most of all by respecting the inherent human dignity of each individual.