The spiritual nature of the food ministry at the Dorothy Day Center has never been in doubt. Those who serve report fulfillment and comfort just working in the building, and life-changing experiences while delivering food. Here are some observations from volunteers:
Doug said: "I just love to get food for people and the warm feeling it gives you. People are so appreciative." Doug delivered to an elderly woman who needed ongoing help. She lived to be 100 years old. She made a fruit salad or cookies from food she was given and shared it with him when he brought groceries.
An elderly man receiving regular assistance was dying. He called for the volunteer from the Dorothy Day Center to be with him in his last moments. Doug was holding his hand when he passed away.
Marcus Evans, the Director (volunteer also) said, "Today I was thinking what a holy place this is, the work that goes on here, and how it inspires people to be good Christians. I don't even know how to put it into words. It seems so right."
Hank said, "Sometimes if you are down in the dumps, to come here and sit, or do some task, it clears your mind."
Monica said, "I love seeing kids come over from St.Charles School to sort cans or unpack boxes. The Center helps them know the world is a big place and some people in it are suffering. It is a faith-enriching experience for them."
Marcus said the food that arrives sometimes reminds him of the story of Elijah, the poor widow, and the oil and flour that did not run out. (1 Kings 17:8-24) Specialized items like Ensure or diabetic applesauce have shown up as a Food Bank commodity when there is a dietary request. When the need is no longer there, "those foods are never available again," Evans said.
Doug said: "I just love to get food for people and the warm feeling it gives you. People are so appreciative." Doug delivered to an elderly woman who needed ongoing help. She lived to be 100 years old. She made a fruit salad or cookies from food she was given and shared it with him when he brought groceries.
An elderly man receiving regular assistance was dying. He called for the volunteer from the Dorothy Day Center to be with him in his last moments. Doug was holding his hand when he passed away.
Marcus Evans, the Director (volunteer also) said, "Today I was thinking what a holy place this is, the work that goes on here, and how it inspires people to be good Christians. I don't even know how to put it into words. It seems so right."
Hank said, "Sometimes if you are down in the dumps, to come here and sit, or do some task, it clears your mind."
Monica said, "I love seeing kids come over from St.Charles School to sort cans or unpack boxes. The Center helps them know the world is a big place and some people in it are suffering. It is a faith-enriching experience for them."
Marcus said the food that arrives sometimes reminds him of the story of Elijah, the poor widow, and the oil and flour that did not run out. (1 Kings 17:8-24) Specialized items like Ensure or diabetic applesauce have shown up as a Food Bank commodity when there is a dietary request. When the need is no longer there, "those foods are never available again," Evans said.
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