With a growing homeless population in Montreal, a family has taken it upon themselves to start "The Sandwich Crew" (formerly known as The Sandwich Brigade). The Sandwich Crew consists of a group of generous volunteers who collect and distribute hundreds of sandwiches directly to people on the streets as well as local shelters every week. The West Island Restaurants team is collaborating with this generous start-up organization to help bring the initiative to the West Island community.
This initiative was started by a kindhearted brother and sister duo, Mark Laxer and Sandra Laxer Stein, who were tired of seeing the daily struggles the homeless population in Montreal face. Mark’s son in law, Corey Szwarcok, joined the team shortly after and expanded the reach of the organization to include the West Island community.
The Sandwich Crew works with volunteers who prepare 25 sandwiches each and deliver them to a designated location in DDO every Tuesday. Volunteers to prepare, deliver, and distribute the meals have successfully connected and coordinated through social media thus far.
As of January 4th, 2021 they already had commitments by individuals and restaurants for 1,250 sandwiches and counting! This is an amazing initiative that the whole family can get involved in.
How to get involved
If you are interested in preparing sandwiches for the upcoming Tuesday, please contact the Sandwich Crew on the West Island Restaurant's Facebook page and they will follow up with more info. If you'd like to volunteer at a later date, feel free to comment on the linked post so the team can see who is interested. Stay tuned on the West Island Restaurant Facebook group as they plan to post again for subsequent weeks.
Any and all types of sandwiches are welcome. They ask that each sandwich is individually wrapped in a clear wrapping. You may also give sweets, fruits, snacks, or anything that is individually packed.
People are getting innovative with their donations and are figuring out creative ways to help some of the most vulnerable community members. The Sandwich Crew received 1000 $10 gift cards to Tim Hortons from an anonymous donor! Another anonymous group of West Islanders donated $200 worth of gas/depanneur gift cards in denominations of $25 to be given to those in need.
If you are able to lend a hand in anyway, please consider doing so as people are facing unprecedented challenges. Montrealers and West Islanders have proven time and time again that they show up for their community when the going gets tough and that no one is alone in their struggle.
If you are interested in joining The Sandwich Crew you may apply via e-mail at helphomelessmtl@gmail.com
