Together we can make the impossible possible

St. James

This is a time for reflection. A time to consider your role in the community. With so many people struggling, it is difficult to believe you can make a difference – but you can.

I recently attended a presentation by Josh Ward, site lead at the Pimicikamak Wellness Centre, located at 621 Balmoral St., and operated by 1JustCity.

In 2009, a group of five ministries from the Winnipeg Presbytery of the United Church of Canada set out under the name 1HopeWinnipeg to offer a variety of programs. In 2015, the name was changed to 1JustCity, and the organization supports drop-in centres in the West End, West Broadway, and Osborne Village neighbourhoods

Its mission is to create a welcoming, inclusive community that uplifts marginalized individuals and families.

1JustCity’s drop-in centre offer daily meals, art, seniors’ programs, sharing circles, haircuts, showers, laundry and toiletries. In the winter months, they run a warming centre in Osborne Village.

Working closely with Indigenous communities, they also provide programs, events and activities that promote healing, reconciliation and cultural understanding.

Josh answered a few questions about the program. Here’s what he had to say:

How long have you been with 1Just City?

“I started with 1JustCity as a practicum student/volunteer in the summer of 2015, so I’m coming up on 11 years now.”

Do you see the same clients every day?

“We have a core of guests that we see nearly daily, who we trust to help us build and maintain the spirit of this place. There are others who come more occasionally, to engage in a certain program they enjoy. Or maybe just to say hi and have some lunch. There are new people coming through our door every day, who receive a warm welcome and good hospitality.”

Is weather a concern?

“Our primary mission at 1JustCity is to build community, and offer safe places of respite where people can gather together and feel like they belong. The majority of our guests are housed, but we also welcome many people who are homeless. In that respect, our space can be more than just safe and welcoming – it can be literally lifesaving.”

Do you have enough volunteers?

“A full complement at Pimicikamak is 20 to 25 volunteers, which means that we can all be present in our community. Other days we will have only four or five volunteers. There are also volunteers gathering and delivering donations, or planning fundraising events. It takes many hands to keep this place running well, and we are always looking for good help.”

Visit www.1justcity.ca for a complete donation list as well as contact information, should you choose to donate your time.