Virginia Lucas initially said no when asked to talk about the idea of forming a group that now goes by the name of Church Out Serving.
It’s not that she didn’t want to help, but because she had done so much volunteer work in the past, she wanted a break.
She then decided she would go to one meeting and since then she has been at the forefront of the group which connects churches to help the community thrive.
From opening-up a laundry mat in Downtown Simcoe when none existed, to purchasing the former LCBO with plans to turn it into a community kitchen and HUB centre – the group has been walking towards new initiatives.
One major way they are helping is by supporting local food banks by setting up several community gardens across the county and providing fresh vegetables to people who may struggle to afford it otherwise.
The first project Lucas helped spearhead was ‘We Believe in Simcoeʼ – a two-day event for the community.
While the one day is highly regarded by everyone – a day filled with inflatable rides, food, and fireworks – more quietly they also host a day for people in need.
This is a day where tons of volunteers show up and hand out free food, clothes, and other services like providing haircuts.
Lucas said it is a passion to help others that keeps her going and that she doesn’t think about it on a year-to-year basis but rather on a day-by-day basis seeing what she can do to help.
Listen to her full interview below.