MontrealAlouettes.com
MONTRÉAL – In what has become a Thanksgiving tradition for the Alouettes, several players made their way to a homeless shelter to serve a holiday meal immediately following their game against the Blue Bombers on Monday at Percival Molson Stadium.
|
|
|
The Alouettes shed their jerseys and shoulder pads for aprons and ladles Monday evening. | PHOTOS » |
The players shed their jerseys and shoulder pads for aprons and ladles at the Welcome Hall Mission, a shelter that has been providing warm meals and a roof over the head of Montreal’s homeless since 1892. Just as he does each Thanksgiving, Anthony Calvillo led a contingent of his teammates which included Chip Cox, Michael Ola, Kyries Hebert, Brian Bratton, and Shea Emry who all joined forces with Welcome Hall Mission staff and fellow volunteers.
“We’ve been doing this for 10-15 years now,” said Calvillo. “The guys and I take a lot of pride in going over there and helping no matter how tired and banged up we might be. It’s nice to help out, but I’m always quick to deflect the credit to the amazing volunteers to make a difference all year round. They’re a really special group of people here. I know there were times in my life when I needed assistance and it’s the least we can do to help out a few times a year.”
The Welcome Hall Mission’s goal is to extend a warm welcome to all those who come to its door, providing them shelter, food, someone to talk to and a chance to rebuild their lives.
Also a longtime ally of the Welcome Hall Mission, receiver Bratton was humbled to participate once again.
“Winning or losing a game on a day like today doesn’t change how important it is to give back,” explained Bratton. “It’s one of those special times in the year and I just hope we can help instill some hope into their lives. That’s all that matters to us.”
