Loaves and Fishes - Serving the Homeless - August 2016

Just like any other mornings when we entered the Friendship Park at Loaves and Fishes, many of the homeless were already there waiting to receive breakfast, except this time I saw new faces, and the line was shorter than usual. Inside, I was somewhat happy that I didn't see the familiar faces because I was holding the hope that they may have gotten back on their feet; they found jobs, and homes, and live a more happy, productive life. At least this is our hope when we serve them.

On a good day, the homeless would receive a decent breakfast from organizations like ours. Otherwise, you would see a homeless man eating a large piece of leftover cake or up to a dozen of cupcakes that were donated by the local bakeries.

A heart-felt thank to the VSpice readers for your support and generous contributions.

There are times when my very close friends raised a legitimate point as to why I help the homeless knowing very well that some of them will use what money they have for drugs and alcohol, forcing themselves into a persistent state of homelessness. We often rationalize our negative attitude toward the homeless, and devalue them by saying they are probably drug addicts , alcoholics, and deemed them too lazy to work. I used to be that someone but my point of view changed since I've come to learn much about the state of homelessness.

There are a myriad reasons why people become homeless. There are the alcohol abusers and drug addicts who have become estranged from their families and friends. Mental illnesses can be a powerful driver as well. A recent job loss, family illness, or other kinds of misfortunate may be the trigger. Despite having a job, people still can lose their homes.

But in the midst of this, we do see the resilient human spirit. While we were getting ready to serve breakfast, for example, some of the homeless asked if they can get their food first because they have to go to work. What a pleasant surprise.

There is hope when there is faith . . . when there is love.

Life is definitely unpredictable and we never know what it will bring. At the same time, your single act of kindness could change their lives in more ways than you can possibly fathom, hopefully pulling or pushing them out of homelessness.

"You cannot do a kindness too soon because you never know how soon it will be too late."

- Ralph Waldo Emerson

Here are some pictures from our recent breakfast serving on August 23rd.

freshly cooked oatmeal at 5:30 am

Dan- the egg man who is committed to cook the eggs. Thank you Dan.

I am so thankful to have these ladies who have generously given up their time, and energy, to make our breakfast event possible.

6:30 am: picking up food at Belair. Thank you Belair for letting us store our food in your refrigerator.

Our wonderful group of volunteers serving breakfast.