The Door Is Open

Since 1973, The Door Is Open has been a drop-in-ministry providing food, clothing, counselling, and shelter services for the less fortunate and homeless in Vancouver’s Downtown East side, while also providing a safe and welcoming environment.

Everyday, you will find an almost endless line up of people waiting to receive a meal with a warm smile. The Door Is Open not only satisfies their hunger but their spirits as well.

We had the privilege and opportunity to visit and witness first-hand the wonderful work of Sister Chitta and all the volunteers who helped to prepare and serve the guests that come through their doors every day.

When each person enters the center to receive a meal, they are welcomed and greeted with dignity, compassion and respect.

The environment fosters a sense of community, where they can grab a seat at a table and eat, while conversing with others.

The staff at The Door Is Open are also seen mingling among the guests, enhancing these individuals’ self-worth.

With the harsh stigma associated with the less fortunate, especially those affected by mental health and substance abuse issues, they seldom experience a friendly experience with society, further enhancing their sense of isolation and hopelessness.

At The Door is Open that stigma ceases to exist.

There is a lot of work that goes on behind the scenes through fund raising, donations, receiving of supplies, preparing meals and clean-up, but everyone is collaborative, organized, and thoughtful in their duties.

It was an incredibly humbling experience to witness the efforts that are made to serve their guests. These are true angels among our less fortunate and homeless, who hold no judgement, only compassion.