The Open Door was started in 1988 by a member of St. Stephen's Anglican Church in response to the increasing numbers of people, both homeless and "working poor", who came to the church in search of help. Many of them came looking for food, a listening ear, or warm clothing in winter. Today The Open Door serves approximatley 2,000 people each month providing: shelter, food, clothing, counselling, addiction and recovery services, low income, housing, community, and support. The centre is one of the only wet shelters in Montreal; welcoming intoxicated people in.