We usually expect the first Saturday after benefits payments to be a bit slower, but that sure wasn't true this morning. The room was full the very first thing. Everyone needed coffee or hot chocolate.
And our Neighbors wanted to talk. Gail and Joyce with Mercy Watch were busy all morning. Jeannine from Advocates Recovery, Mary from Hero's Cafe, and Emily and Avis who are NiN volunteers were busy listeners for the entire morning.
Our team from Edmonds Unitarian Universalist Church filled the oven with burritos. It's a good thing. Our many guests were eager for a hot breakfast.
NEEDED AS ALWAYS!! OUR CLOTHING BANK IS COMPLETELY OUT OF MEN'S UNDERWEAR AND BELTS. Can you help?
Our pantry served 72 Neighbors and 2 families today. Here is a touching story. One family box went to a dad who was a first-time visitor. He came to Trinity by bus which, of course, meant that he had to carry his family box on the bus. It took some time, but he managed to pack it all into a backpack. That's what dads do.
Another touching story............ We all know Jerry. He is a proud native of Texas who loves his cowboy boots. Remember how solitary and defensive he was back in the first days of Neighbors in Need? It must have taken a couple of years for David Gunderson to develop a relationship with him. From there he baby-stepped his way to additional trust and even occasional banter. Jeannine with Advocates Recovery has recently advocated for him with various social services. He told Jeannine this morning, "I'm getting better. You all have helped me here." (And that is exactly why we are here, isn't it?)
Let's keep up the powerful love.
Joan
For NiN leadership
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