I attended a conference for volunteer professionals across the country in Miami. As a part of the conference, we served meals at Chapman Partnership, a comprehensive support program that includes emergency housing, meals & job placement. Over a short period of time, we served about 400 meals "restaurant style" to children, women and men of all ages. A common myth is that all people experiencing homelessness are men, when in fact, homeless families comprise roughly one third of the total homeless population. You can read a few more common myths and facts of people experiencing homelessness here.
I have visited shelter before but it had been awhile since I visited a family shelter. We served meals to families of 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7, babies and high school students, single men, people with disabilities, elderly and young, etc. I would ask kids how their day in school was, what their favorite subject in school was, and ask them to take three more bits of green beans before eating another cookie. I purposely did not take my phone out while I was inside. I wanted to preserve people's dignity and make sure I was not making anyone feel uncomfortable (so no photos to accompany this post). I left feeling grateful for having my basic needs met - having a safe and secure home and access to food.
No comments:
Post a Comment