Valentine's Day lunch helps homeless Montrealers

The cold snapdidn't stop organizers and volunteersfrom warming the hearts and backs of Montreal'sless fortunate Saturday.

Face Face, an intervention centre for those in need, held aValentine's Day lunch for over 500 Montrealers atMaison du Pre.

• Arctic blast descends on Central, Eastern Canada
• Homeless Inuk man's selfless act inspires donation from Alberta entrepreneur

The organization's director says the Friendship Partyhelps build a sense of community for those who are struggling or homeless.

"We tend to forget the winter is long, and cold and dark," Grace Fontessaid."And people tend to be very much alone."

'It's like a celebration'

The event featured a DJ, a hot meal and a chance to pick out some warm clothing as temperatures dip below -20 C over the weekend.

Michelle Partridgemade flyers and went to a Metro station to tell as many people as she could upon hearing about the lunch.

Patridgesaidevents like this add positivity to her life after facing homelessness for three years.

"They have a DJ and wonderful peppy happy music so it's like a celebration," Partridge said.