Volunteer

Sharing With Local Soup Kitchens and Food Banks

With the severe economic downturn that has affected our country over the past couple of years, more and more families are finding themselves on soup lines in order to stay alive. This is especially troubling because a vast number of the recipients of these services are children.

As many as there are who are distressed, there are so many more who are still able to feed and house their families.

One of the dangers of being shielded from situations such as these is that we run the risk of losing our compassion and sensitivity to the needs of those who are less fortunate. This is especially true in situations involving children.

Although there is very little any one individual can do to dramatically change the plight of those who are hungry and in need, however, when one individual join hands with others the impact can be substantial. Children in particular, should be taught at an early age the importance of being their “brother’s/sister’s” keeper. This is a lesson that is made more meaningful when action or doing is a part of the process.

There is so much that can be done and the only thing needed to begin the process is to make the decision to do it. Here are some tips to get you started.

  1. Conduct a search on the internet for names of local soup kitchens or shelters and contact them in order to get an idea of what is needed. Be sure to involve your children in the entire process.
  2. Involve only those children who are of age to get the lesson.
  3. Make a schedule of when you will volunteer your time and have a conversation with your child(ren) about why this is important.
  4. Explain to your children that although these families are having a tough time, they still deserve to be treated with respect and that it can happen to anyone.
  5. If allowed, sit down and have your meal with the families involved. This is typically done in small centers or churches. One word of caution: Be careful to keep any discussions of a general nature; not sharing any personal information about you or your children. If you are not in a comfortable setting where this can be done, leave this out. If you decide to sit with the families, be sure to accompany your children at all times.
  6. If allowed, take along a care package of small items that the shelter or soup kitchen might need. It is best to inquire beforehand.
  7. Have a discussion with your children about your experience and teach them the importance of being grateful.