Mission: The Open Door is a Christian ministry dedicated to reaching out and serving the hunger needs of the poor and homeless of our community regardless of race, color, creed or sexual orientation. This is accomplished through the daily provision of hot, nutritious meals served in a friendly, welcoming environment. In continuous operation since 1991, the program began by serving a meal at a downtown location each Thursday evening. From there, the program has expanded to a six day operation. The program also provides guests with encouragement for daily living, including sponsorship of a christian 12-step program, and informal mentoring program, informal monitoring of elder, spouse and child abuse and neglect and provision of support to continue in community based substance abuse, mental health and probation programs. Information, referral and advocacy are regularly provided.
I have been a volunteer at the Open Door for around 5 years now. I have watched it move from South Street to Lawrence and have seen it grow in its reach to the homeless and less fortunate in the Glens Falls area. The staff and the volunteers have done a great job in reaching the needs of their clientele. From food to healthcare and even housing the homeless in the winter months, the Open Door is there for the people who need them.
This is an organization that has a difficult job and yet the staff and volunteers are committed and caring. They work tirelessly to do even more and I'm constantly amazed to discover new programs and opportunities that seem to pop up every month. I very much appreciate the desire to do more, myself, that grows as I see the dedication at every level within this organization.
