Bookstore aims for transformation
Mennonite Central Committee opened Sam’s Place, a non-profit used book store, café, and performing arts venue, in the former Christian Press building in Winnipeg this March. Sam’s Place was renovated with volunteer labour from a halfway house for men with criminal records, and is managed by a man convicted of bank robbery who became acquainted with MCC through its prison visitation program Open Circle. “I believe in second chances not only for myself but for everyone,” said manager Tim Collins, pictured left, with baker and chef Jon McPhail. “We want Sam’s Place to be an inviting, warm, and safe place – a meeting place with a heart.”—from MCC report
