Shaar fundraiser comes through for Open Gate

Several hundred members of the local synagogue got together on June 6 to take part in the supper and bridge gala Evening fundraiser to support Open Gate, a weekly day program which buses frail, isolated and elderly members from all over Montreal to use Shaar Hashomayim's facilities.

Over the years, the program has proven very popular with seniors.

"They have programs, they have a hot meal, they spend the day here," said Evelyn Shrier, one of the members of the gala's organizing committee. "For many of them, this is probably the only hot meal, the only contact they have with other people."

The annual gala raises all the money needed to operate Open Gate, which is non-sectarian. The evening included raffle prize drawings for items such a sterling silver tray, a suede jacket and a strand of pearls. There were also door prizes provided by Caplan-Duval, Gibby's restaurant, Lou Goldberg Jewellers and other sponsors.

Shrier noted the important role Shaar Hashomayim has played over the years in opening its doors regularly to those in need, and also during times of crisis occasionally. She recalled the ice storm that struck the Montreal region in 1998 and how many Westmount residents found shelter and warmth in the rooms and halls of Shaar Hashomayim.

"During the ice storm, the Shaar Hashomayim was very fortunate to be able to open its doors to the entire community, and they slept in all these rooms," she said.

Shrier also remembered how a couple who were to be wed at Shaar Hashomayim when the storm hit made a decision to donate all the food and flowers intended for the ceremony and reception to the relief effort.

"We are part of the community," said Shrier.