Seventy-five women and children waited patiently in line as I scooped up the carrots, ladled out the gravy, and dished up the rice while the meat was precariously placed on the plates by Loretta, the main cook and clean up gal. Seventy-five young families and single women. Loretta told me this number was below average--she usually feeds at least a hundred people every night. It is appalling to me that we have this many homeless in Madison and this is only the tip of the iceberg of the many thousands of people across this grand country of ours who struggle without food and a place to stay. Are we thinking that it is not our problem? The Salvation Army and others have done an exemplary job helping but why in the world can't we find a better solution? Shall we band together and demand permanent housing and support for those in need? I don't have the answer, but this goal of mine was probably the most frustrating because it left me wanting to do more and not knowing where to begin.
I do know that the appreciative looks and the heartfelt "thank yous" from everyone that night made me determined to find a way to make sure no one sleeps out in the cold this winter. Donations to the Salvation Army or any homeless shelter in your community will help supply warm beds and healthy meals to a population that needs our help; and I guarantee that you will be the recipient their everlasting gratitude.
No comments:
Post a Comment