Today we were able to work with the people that live within Waynesville and Haywood as we volunteered at the local soup kitchen, The Open Door. This organization is ran mainly by churches within the local and surrounding communities and ensures that those living in poverty still get the essentials needed for survival. The soup kitchen offers 2 meals a day throughout the week and one meal on the weekends. It was amazing how many people work together to make sure that the community is taken care of. We helped with several different tasks such as serving meals, restocking the shelves, helping with maintenance around the building and providing education to the community. The individuals I was able to meet today faced several challenges within their day-to-day life including the lack of healthcare resources, lack of support, substance abuse, and lack of shelter. The open door provides food, gas cards, access to a thrift store, boxes of food, prescription assistance, and also provide game/craft days that allow them to occupy their time. Other resources within the area include shelters and a place called Meridian that holds group sessions for those dealing with substance abuse, mental health illnesses, and preventative screenings for those within the community. All of these places work together to help give to those that are in need. Overall, I was able to learn a lot from the community and I enjoyed how willing the people were when I asked to talk to them.
Today we were able to work with the people that live within Waynesville and Haywood as we volunteered at the local soup kitchen, The Open Door. This organization is ran mainly by churches within the local and surrounding communities and ensures that those living in poverty still get the essentials needed for survival. The soup kitchen offers 2 meals a day throughout the week and one meal on the weekends. It was amazing how many people work together to make sure that the community is taken care of. We helped with several different tasks such as serving meals, restocking the shelves, helping with maintenance around the building and providing education to the community. The individuals I was able to meet today faced several challenges within their day-to-day life including the lack of healthcare resources, lack of support, substance abuse, and lack of shelter. The open door provides food, gas cards, access to a thrift store, boxes of food, prescription assistance, and also provide game/craft days that allow them to occupy their time. Other resources within the area include shelters and a place called Meridian that holds group sessions for those dealing with substance abuse, mental health illnesses, and preventative screenings for those within the community. All of these places work together to help give to those that are in need. Overall, I was able to learn a lot from the community and I enjoyed how willing the people were when I asked to talk to them.
You did a great job "jumping in" and helping out at the soup kitchen. Even though your mopping skills were criticized, you continued to help with a smile on your face.
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