Poverty comes in many forms. But poverty of resources is something that we can all understand. Although it may be hard to see this in Oakville, there are over 26,000 people who live below the "Low Income Cut Off" and are in need of practical assistance.

Poverty of relationships, however, is much harder to see. Our connection to family and friends, co-workers and church groups helps us to feel valuable and included, rather than on the margins of society. Without relationships, we are left truly impoverished.

At Kerr Street Ministries, motivated by God’s command to ‘love others’, we work to alleviate all kinds of poverty. We strive to share a sense of “home”, even if it is just for a short time each day. We come alongside individuals and families because we care and we want to help. We hope that every person who comes into ‘KSM’ will leave with a sense of belonging.

History

In 1995, a group of concerned citizens from Chartwell Baptist Church founded Kerr Street Community Services. What started as a simple food co-operative was expanded significantly in the spring of 2010 when The Dream Centre was built. This 19,000 square foot facility now houses a growing number of programs and services to help our most needy neighbours.

Mission Statement

Kerr Street Ministries is called to transform lives by serving people in Oakville living in economic, social and spiritual poverty.

As a charitable Christian organization, we acknowledge that every person is created in the image of God and has inherent value and dignity. We are committed to providing help the present and hope for the future.

Core Values

We at Kerr Street Ministries provide a safe place to those in need. In all that we do, we intend to reflect Christ's love through:

• Integrity
• Transparency
• Responsiveness
• Compassion
• Christian Education

Vision Statement

“To embody the love and compassion of Jesus Christ to bring relief for the present and hope for the future to those in need in our community.”