The history of AFQOL

Back in 1988, Minnie Coulson and her Husband, George started Friday’s free lunch as an important time for people living with HIV/AIDS to go and meet other people, some who were staff at AIDS Calgary, and address various concerns - but mostly to have a decent meal - for many at the time, a rare occurence

Minnie and George did this every Friday of every month out of the kindness of their hearts, to begin with... In May of 1994, Minnie retired due to health reasons but later that year Patrick O’Neil and Doug Langille stepped-in and brought the program back on a bi-weekly basis.

In the past, the Cut-a-thons started by Donnie Peters, were a major contributor to this program. And, there was a time when the funding for this valuable program fell very short of its needs. Luckily there was more help.

The Lunch Program is still only able to be offered bi-weekly, from the first Friday in September until the last Friday in June. But thanks to some dedicated volunteers the program continues. There is, however, always need for funds to purchase groceries and to ensure the ongoing supply of basic cooking essentials such as equipment, energy and, of course, food. Funding is also needed to help provide tables, chairs, etc. (and their repair!)

Our goal with this year’s Cut-a-thon is to achieve/acquire these necessary funds help provide as many FREE Friday lunches every month of the year, as well as offering funds for the bi-weekly coffee socials and support programs. We also want to honor the memory of Donnie and his hard work with the past Cut-a-thons and with Artists for Quality of Life.