It's called The Gathering Place for a good reason…read more
This community center and homeless shelter based right in the heart of downtown Vancouver is truly one of a kind. Offering everything from laundry services with same-day pick-up (for a low price), public washrooms, and temporary shelter and overnight facilities, this is as good as it gets for the needy in the Lower Mainland. But you don't necessarily have to be needy to pay a visit.
I first heard about this place from a good friend who used to work for The Gathering Place, telling me that I should drop by for lunch or dinner one of these days. You've got to be kidding me, I initially thought to myself. Why would I go to a community center when I am literally surrounded by food, in one of the most renowned food hubs in the country that is Vancouver no less! Nonetheless, being the hungry tourist that I am, and intrigued by what this establishment could possibly offer in the way of delectable nourishments, I followed the advice of my friend. Lo and behold, to my amazement I came to find myself at the foot of yet another hidden gem in the concrete jungles of downtown Vancouver.
By the gods, everything from curries and pastas to salads and sandwiches, from the sea and from the mountains, The Gathering Place's professional chefs will have you leaving satisfied with simple, tasty staples and generous portions. They have truly proven that they deserves a place among Vancouver's most underrated and cheapest dining establishments...
... serving each meal at a surprising $2.00 per meal. Yes, you read that right. $2.00. Per. Meal.
Not only do they have a diverse, astonishing and, might I add, nutritious assortment of breakfasts, lunches, and dinners, but the meals here are served three times a day at specific intervals which can be found on their website (9am to 11am, 12pm to 230pm, and 5pm to 7pm). Each meal is portioned well, generously served in a recyclable, aluminum container, placed inside a paper bag along with the standard eating utensils. As well, a fruit juice box as the accompanying beverage included in the meal. In the two times I've visited The Gathering Place, this has been consistent.
The lineups, which can sometimes extend up to half a block in length, are a testament to not only the quality of food you can find at The Gathering Place, but for the relatively good service and facilities that they provide to the community. And so now, we see why this community center is a premier place for locals from near and far to gather and enjoy a hot meal away from the elements.
As long as you don't mind braving the outdoor weather or politely standing in a line for a while, The Gathering Place is indeed a safe place to go for a relatively decent bite to eat, especially if you're strapped for cash.
Food aside, I'm actually pretty happy I've discovered this place. Vancouver's homeless have it good, man. In fact, better than I thought before I found out about The Gathering Place. It's nice to know that the City of Vancouver has these kinds of services available to those who may be in need. I'll definitely be recommending this community center to anyone who needs a place to stay for the night or needs access to services to help get them back on their feet.
Support this local establishment! The next time you come across a hungry person, give them a toonie and tell them to come here for their next meal instead of letting them spend it on McDonald's.