The "Shepherds of Good Hope" organization in Ottawa hosted hundreds of people for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a warm festive atmosphere on Christmas Day.

The organization witnessed a large influx of residents, including Azri Sharons, a 70-year-old man who sometimes stays at the shelter and sometimes outside due to a lack of sufficient space. Azri expressed his gratitude for the holiday meal, especially given his ongoing concerns about spending extremely cold nights on the streets.

Housa Delis, who has been volunteering at the shelter since 2022, was among the volunteers who helped organize the event. He described the atmosphere as filled with joy, with people smiling and feeling happy despite the challenges.

The shelter also provided gift bags containing socks, personal care items, and simple toys like playing cards for the guests who spent Christmas Eve there.

Additionally, the shelter plans to host a group of carolers on “Boxing Day” to perform songs, along with distributing gifts to visitors, and encouraging the community to donate items such as coffee, socks, hats, gloves, and blankets to support those experiencing homelessness.