A Community Table: Supporting the Dew Drop Inn
-
by
Firedog
Recently, United Way of Thunder Bay staff had the opportunity to volunteer at the Dew Drop Inn — a place that has long been a cornerstone of food access in our community. The lunch that day was personally sponsored by members of the United Way Board of Directors and staff, a small but heartfelt way to support the vital work happening there every day.
The Dew Drop Inn has been serving meals in Thunder Bay for decades, and its impact has grown significantly in recent years. As Executive Director Michael Quibell prepares for his retirement this June, he reflected on what has been an extraordinary journey.
“I joined the Dew Drop Inn in July of 2016, and what an incredible journey it has been. Back then, we were amazed that by year’s end we had served 70,000 meals. In 2025, that number reached 145,000.”
That growth reflects both rising need and the dedication of staff, volunteers, donors, and community partners who have rallied together through challenge after challenge.
“We are firm believers that everyone deserves a good meal — with no judgment or questions asked — and that everyone needs to be treated with respect and dignity. Our patrons tell us that knowing a good meal is waiting for them daily lifts some weight from already burdened shoulders.”
The cost of providing that daily meal continues to rise, and sustaining this work depends on consistent community support. While the Dew Drop Inn is clear that it is not the solution to food insecurity, it plays a critical role in ensuring no one goes hungry while longer-term solutions continue to take shape. Through NOURISH the North, our food security initiative, United Way of Thunder Bay is committed to supporting this work while also investing in solutions that address the root causes of food insecurity — from stronger local food systems to programs that promote stability, dignity, and opportunity in our community.
United Way of Thunder Bay is grateful for the partnership we share with the Dew Drop Inn and for the leadership that Michael has provided, guiding the organization over the past nine years. We extend our sincere congratulations and thanks to Michael as he approaches retirement, and our deep appreciation to the entire Dew Drop Inn team for the compassion, dignity, and care they bring to the community every day.
