Paul and Ross are two friends in Moncton, New Brunswick, who you have supported through your contributions to ADRA. Both men have benefitted from the projects at the Moncton Seventh-day Adventist Church, including the Ray of Hope Soup Kitchen, and from the John Howard Society – named for ADRA Canada’s founder.

Ross (50) moved from Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia to Monton just under four years ago looking for a fresh start. He had spent some time incarcerated and came to Moncton when the John Howard Society offered to help him with housing. While Ross is not currently able to work due to his health (he currently awaits an important surgery), he has been able to volunteer with the JHS while they assist him with the cost of rent. What money he does make, he sends back to Nova Scotia as child support for his 17-year-old son. The fact that the Soup Kitchen provides meals helps him more confidently commit to that fatherly duty.

Paul (53) has a 17-year-old daughter and 27-year-old son, a commonality that he bonded over with Ross at the John Howard Society, where the two men first became friends. Paul is also awaiting a surgery that currently is keeping him away from work, but after experiencing homelessness for some years, he is grateful for the life he has now in the 1-bedroom apartment he found at the end of August 2023.

“To me,” Paul says, “Ray of Hope means peace of mind. Regardless of circumstances, I know I will have something to eat every day […] It is one less thing to worry about, so it gives space to think of other important things.”

“We feel welcome here,” Ross adds. “Greg (the Ray of Hope manager) is good at maintaining a peaceful and safe environment.”

Both men express great appreciation for the “dine-in” experience that Ray of Hope has recently reinstated. It allows them an opportunity to socialize with people, and the “take as you need” bread table gives them an opportunity to bring food to some of their neighbours – a good deed that both men find meaningful.

Ross hopes to one day acquire some land, build a cabin, and begin some small-scale farming. He also hopes to build a deeper relationship with his son. Paul, for his part, has dreams of finding success as a musician. Both have real dreams for their lives in spite of their struggles, because donors like you keep them fed.