The L.E.A.F. Initiative is a Commonwell program to support capacity, resiliency and growth in the communities we call home.

Unity in Community – Church Hall Enhancement Initiative

70 Harder Drive BellevilleK8P 3R1

Target Completion Date: December 31, 2026

What is this project about?

This project is about renewing the heart of our community. The church hall serves as a place where faith is lived out, traditions are honoured, and relationships are nurtured. A revitalized hall ensures that we can continue offering meaningful experiences that strengthen both individual lives and our collective identity.

One of the most pressing needs this renovation addresses is inclusivity and accessibility. The elderly, who are among the most frequent participants in our programs, depend on this space not only for fellowship but for connection that alleviates isolation. For many, the meals, coffee hours, and liturgical events we host provide essential social interaction. Without a welcoming, functional space, some of our most vulnerable members may be left without these important touch points.

Additionally, the project seeks to reinvigorate the involvement of younger parishioners, ensuring that our community grows in both size and spirit. An updated, inviting space encourages younger generations to reconnect with their faith and actively participate in the life of the church. By creating a setting where all generations can come together, we cultivate unity and continuity that will sustain the parish for years to come.

The upgraded hall will also strengthen our ability to serve beyond our parish. Our outreach efforts, such as preparing meals during major holidays and feast days, allow us to support not only our parishioners but also individuals in the broader community. Modernized kitchen facilities and expanded event capacity will allow us to provide even more meals and extend our reach through charitable programs.

Ultimately, this project is about preserving the legacy of service, fellowship, and faith that defines our church. It ensures that the tireless efforts of our volunteers and Philoptochos Board have the infrastructure they need to make a lasting difference. Every meal prepared, every event hosted, and every outreach program we deliver relies on this space being fully functional and welcoming. The renovation is not just about maintenance—it’s about ensuring that our church hall continues to be a beacon of hope, generosity, and community. The creation of a space where faith, tradition, and service thrive, now and for future generations. Building a stronger and more connected community to ensure that our mission endures.

Why is this project important to the community?

It is essential to the well-being and cohesion of our community. As a place where faith, culture, and service intersect, the hall plays a crucial role in meeting both the spiritual and social needs of our parishioners. Its renovation will ensure that we continue to offer a space where individuals of all ages feel a sense of belonging and purpose. For our elderly members, many of whom are widowed or live alone, the church hall serves as more than just a gathering space—it is a lifeline. Weekly coffee hours, meals, and fellowship events provide essential social interaction, combating loneliness and fostering relationships. The ability to continue hosting these activities in a comfortable and accessible space ensures that no one in our community feels isolated or forgotten. At the same time, this project is about inspiring younger generations to reconnect with the church. In today’s fast-paced world, many younger people feel disconnected from tradition and community. A revitalized hall offers them a welcoming environment to rediscover their faith and heritage through shared meals, events, and volunteer opportunities. This space will create a bridge between generations, where knowledge, values, and traditions can be passed down, ensuring the church remains a thriving centre of unity. Beyond our parish, the church hall plays a pivotal role in serving the broader community through outreach efforts, particularly during holidays and feast days. With modernized facilities, we will be able to expand these programs, providing meals and support to individuals and families in need. This outreach strengthens bonds not only within our parish but also with our neighbours, fostering a spirit of generosity and compassion that reflects the heart of our mission. Ultimately, this goal is important because it ensures the long-term sustainability of our community. The renovated hall will empower us to carry forward the values of service, hospitality, and philanthropy that define who we are. It will be a place where all are welcomed, where traditions are honoured, and where future generations can learn, grow, and give back. By achieving this goal, we safeguard the spirit of togetherness and shared purpose that makes our church community strong, ensuring it remains a place of support and fellowship for many years to come.