We live in a relatively affluent area. It is astonishing to many who live here that there are neighbours in need. Today, Linda and I were volunteers going around the community collecting food for the food bank. We arrived at the hall and got our route. We had 95 homes to visit. The food drive was advertised for some time, signs on the major streets for a week and flyers delivered to each house. Some people were very generous and left bags of food on their stoops. But, we knocked on every door and asked for donations. Only once were we turned away empty handed (that was Linda's experience - but I had three houses totally unoccupied in Ancaster??).
Yes, the economy is in a downward spiral and many who thought they'd be okay are shocked.
However, it was a gratifiying experience and many people did donate and thanked us for doing our bit.
I have been delivering Meals on Wheels for two months now (only once a week but that's all I've been asked to do) and that is okay. I prefer to do it on my own, as I'm not good at small talk, but sometimes help is good. The "clients" ,as they call them, are varied. Some apparently have some money and family support and others have nothing. Taking a little time chatting makes a big impact. So much for small talk.
I was delivering meals on the day Ombaba was inagurated. I was listening on the radio while I was driving around. Every house I hit had either the radio or the tv tuned in. Every one was excited and we had great convertations. But, it was great day for me (I taped the speech so I did get to see things later) and I was doing what he wants - community service.
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