Cornerstone’s Ministry Reaches Beyond Campus
Once a month, a group of students from McMaster University, Redeemer University, and Mohawk College step beyond campus life, heading downtown Hamilton with care packs filled with sandwiches, bottled water, socks, gloves, fruit, hygiene products, and granola bars. This initiative, led by Cornerstone Adventist Christian Fellowship (ACF), is part of their commitment to community, faith, and service—values that guide their mission both on and off campus.
Two volunteers preparing sandwiches.
Pastor Anthony Kern of Hamilton Mountain Adventist Church, which partners with Cornerstone ACF, sees this outreach as a vital expression of faith.
“Actively serving those in need—especially the homeless in our city—helps cultivate compassion, humility, and a deeper understanding of Christ’s love in action,” he explains.“These formative years are crucial in shaping a young adult’s spiritual journey, and this ministry provides an opportunity for real, hands-on faith.”
Cornerstone ACF is a student-led Christian ministry dedicated to creating a space for fellowship, spiritual growth, and community outreach. Their goal is to provide students across McMaster, Redeemer, and Mohawk campuses with opportunities to connect with one another, grow in faith, and serve those in need.
“Cornerstone’s monthly outreach is a vital extension of our mission at the Hamilton Mountain Adventist Church,” says Pastor Kern. “Partnering in this initiative allows us to support and equip young Adventists in living out their faith while also engaging with the broader Hamilton community in a meaningful way.”
With a team of 10 to 15 volunteers, the group visits Jackson Square, Gage Park, the Salvation Army, and the Women’s Shelter to distribute supplies.
“It’s easy to stay in our campus bubble, but there’s a whole city beyond McMaster that needs help,” says Caleigh, a third-year biology student who is a member of Heritage Green Adventist Church and serves as Cornerstone’s president.
For many students, the experience is eye-opening. Interacting with Hamilton’s homeless population breaks down harmful stereotypes and replaces them with compassion and understanding.
“People often assume homelessness is a choice, but when you talk to someone, you realize they’ve faced hardships beyond their control,” Caleigh explains.
Volunteers preparing care packs.
Cornerstone’s outreach is about more than just food—it’s about human connection. Volunteers don’t simply hand out supplies; they engage in conversations, listen to stories, and offer a sense of belonging.
“One man we helped said, ‘Thank you for seeing me.’ That stuck with me,” Caleigh recalls. “Sometimes, being acknowledged is just as important as the small help we give.”
Small acts—like a pair of warm gloves in winter—can make a world of difference. And for many students, the experience leaves a lasting impact, reinforcing the power of kindness and service.
Highlighting the long-term benefits of this ministry, Pastor Kern shares that “Through this outreach, students not only grow in faith but also develop a lifelong commitment to service. We’re grateful for the opportunity to collaborate and make a lasting impact together.”
So you’re probably wondering… How You Can Help? Well Cornerstone ACF relies on donations to keep their outreach going. They are in urgent need of:
Hygiene products (toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant)
Warm clothing (socks, gloves, mittens)
Bags or backpacks (for carrying personal belongings)
Donations can be dropped off at the Hamilton Mountain Adventist Church, and volunteers are always welcome to join their monthly outreach efforts.
Though a student-run club, Cornerstone ACF is making a tangible difference in Hamilton. By stepping beyond campus walls, they are not just serving food—they are serving hope, dignity, and compassion. Truly encapsulating the ideal of reaching the campus, and changing the world!