The Ottawa Mission says it is struggling to make this holiday experience better for people in need. The homeless shelter is reporting a dramatic reduction in donations.
"I think people are being very prudent these days and being careful with their money, so we're seeing more people and a little less funding," says Mission patron Richard Cole.
Cole was just one of the few volunteering Sunday at the shelter's annual Christmas dinner. But this year wasn't as generous as last. Staff members say donations are down about $200,000. Still, the Mission is getting by though the number of people in need seems to be going up.
"I've never seen lineups like this, so more are looking for a place to eat," says executive director Diane Morrison.
Morrision says this supposed to be a very special time of year for people who walk through the doors. "Often it's people who live alone, or people who live in a rooming house, just need some company to sit and eat with,"
Dozens of volunteers help the Mission by taking part in the festivities. But staff are calling on people to be more generous.
Click here to find out how you can help.
With a report from CTV Ottawa's Claudia Cautillo
