Faith in Action: Fire of God Ministries and Ongoing Grocery Support

In Ottawa’s core, Pastor Brian Markle partners closely with Fire of God Ministries (fireofgod.ca) to strengthen weekly grocery programs held every Wednesday and Sunday.
These efforts supply hundreds of households with food boxes and essential goods — meeting immediate needs while building relationships grounded in faith and compassion.

As inflation and tariffs continue to drive up costs, Pastor Markle’s work focuses on what truly matters: keeping families nourished and connected to a community that cares.

“Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord.” — Proverbs 19:17

Marie Pyper and the 8th Annual “100 Turkeys for 100 Families” Christmas Drive

In another part of the Ottawa Valley, Marie Pyper, Executive Director of Onyx Community Services, continues to lead one of the region’s most heartfelt traditions — the “100 Turkeys for 100 Families” Christmas Drive, now entering its 8th year.

What began as a small seasonal outreach has grown under Marie Pyper’s leadership into a regional campaign of compassion, ensuring that over 100 families each Christmas receive not only a turkey, but also complete food hampers and grocery gift cards.

Her meticulous coordination — from securing donations to organizing volunteers and delivery routes — makes a tangible difference. Each year, families across Renfrew, Brockville, and the Ottawa region sit down to a warm Christmas meal because of this initiative.

“Do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” — Hebrews 13:16

Chaplain Cindy Orleck: Compassion in Daily Practice

Meanwhile, Chaplain Cindy Orleck, serving in Ottawa’s east end and the broader Renfrew County region, works directly with individuals facing isolation, disability, or poverty.
Her background in education and pastoral care allows her to reach those who are often overlooked — people struggling with mobility, chronic illness, or mental health barriers.

Cindy’s work often involves personal check-ins, food support, and faith-based counselling, ensuring that individuals not only receive nourishment but also feel valued and supported.
Her approach is personal and compassionate, reminding clients that they are seen, cared for, and loved.

“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” — Galatians 6:2

A Shared Mission from Three Directions

Though they operate in different areas and capacities, Pastor Brian Markle, Chaplain Cindy Orleck, and Marie Pyper remain deeply connected by purpose.
Each focuses on meeting immediate needs in their own community, yet all three collaborate when possible — sharing resources, referring families, and uniting around common outreach goals.

Their combined efforts are more than charity — they are expressions of faith in motion, turning compassion into concrete help for those facing hardship in an uncertain economic time.

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled.” — Matthew 5:6

Looking Forward: Food Hubs and Meal Programs

In the year ahead, Pastor Brian Markle is advancing plans for four small food hubs across Ottawa to assist shut-ins, seniors, and persons with disabilities.
He is also reviving the Thursday Night Meal Program, formerly hosted on Montreal Road, to bring back a sense of community, conversation, and shared faith around the dinner table.

Meanwhile, Marie Pyper continues to strengthen the infrastructure of the Onyx Community Services food and outreach network, while Chaplain Orleck expands her front-line chaplaincy and community care services throughout Renfrew County and Ottawa’s east side.

“For I was hungry and you gave me food.” — Matthew 25:35

Summary: Three Leaders, One Mission

• Trump-era tariffs have strained households across the Ottawa Valley, making daily life more expensive for working families and seniors.
• Pastor Brian Markle, Chaplain Cindy Orleck, and Marie Pyper each operate from different locations, yet all share the same vision — serving people with compassion, faith, and dignity.
• The 8th Annual “100 Turkeys for 100 Families” Christmas Drive, led by Marie Pyper, continues to grow, feeding hundreds and inspiring others to give.
• Pastor Markle’s grocery partnerships and upcoming food hubs extend that same spirit year-round, while Chaplain Orleck’s personal outreach meets people where they are.
• Together, their work proves that even in the face of tariffs, inflation, and uncertainty, faith, community, and kindness remain stronger than any hardship.

As the cost of living rises, these three leaders remind their communities that hope is not found in politics or policy, but in people — and in the power of sharing a simple meal.

“For I was hungry and you gave me food; I was thirsty and you gave me drink.” — Matthew 25:35re