About Us

OSHaRE is a non profit, charitable community organization that has come together to serve the people of Owen Sound & area by providing one evening meal a day – Monday to Friday – for those in need.

During COVID we have seen a 300% increase in the number of meals needed for guests.

We are presently incorporated with the Province of Ontario and a registered charity with the Canada Revenue Agency #81778 8482 RR0001. All donations to OSHaRE of $10 or more will be issued a tax receipt.

We are made up of caring people from every walk of life who have one thing in common: The desire to make a difference by feeding those who find themselves in need.

Everything is accomplished through hard working volunteers, qualified staff and generous community supporters. We depend upon the collective community taking joint ownership of the needs around us everyday.

Our Board of Directors

Chair:

Geoff Amer

Treasurer:

Maureen Kemp

Members:

Nancy Mohr
Pat McDonough
Sandy Barfoot
Evelyn Klemm
Gene Rear

Pink be kind day and serving up sandwiches

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How did this initiative get started?

A. In the fall of 2011 a public meeting was held to see what interest there was in providing meals for those in need in Owen Sound. From there a board of directors was formed to begin to meet with community partners, investigate what is presently being provided and then determine what is the greatest need.

Q. Why was this direction taken instead of getting behind one already existing?

A. After a community study and meeting with those already providing some level of service it was found that a supper meal was still needed which would add to several lunch meals already being adequately served. Accountability, transparency and a collaborative community effort also played a strong role in the decision.

Q. Have you looked at other models in other communities while doing your research?

A. Yes. Several other similar initiatives were surveyed across Ontario and beyond. There were some that we felt were closest to what Owen Sound needed and an effort was made to investigate these. This allowed us to ask important questions and save time by not reinventing the wheel.

Q. What other community service agencies have been consulted?

A. The Grey Bruce Health Services, Good Food Box, Participation Lodge, Safe’N Sound, The Salvation Army Family Services, The Kitchen Table, R.A.Y. Ministries, Union Place, Canadian Mental Health and several others have been consulted for their input and support. It has been very important to us that all aspects of OSHaRE comply with all necessary regulations and compliment the efforts of other services in the community.

Q. Is this solely a faith based organization?

A. Our Vision, Mission and Core Values are built upon the servant heart of those who are of a faith background but we also realize there are many in our community that do not share in any particular faith but have a similar heart to serve in this tangible way. The Board of Directors is a cross section of people from various walks of life and our goal is to provide for the needs of our community regardless of race, gender or creed. The dignity and value of every life is paramount.

Q. Is OSHaRE incorporated? A charity registered with the Canada Revenue Agency?

A. Yes. We are a non profit organization incorporated with the Province of Ontario. We have charitable status with the Canada Revenue Agency and are fully able to issue tax receipts for donations. Tax receipt will be issued for donations of $10 or more at the beginning of the following year.