Alternative Spring Break

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We hit the ground running on our fourth day in D.C. determined to get our hands dirty. We were introduced that morning to the D.C. Central Kitchen. This kitchen is much different from other soup kitchens in the area because of the special outreach program it offers. The program flips the script, by bringing food to the people, instead of the traditional people coming to the food. We followed precise instructions given to us by our very charismatic leader Jeff Russell. Before we knew it, we were loaded up and on the way out to “Feed the Soul of the City”. Our first location was full of great people who appreciated our services very much and let us know how much they were blessed to have us there. At this stop a couple younger boys hopped in line and our leader, Jeff, was quickly on their cases about why they weren’t in school. Jeff’s encouraging word effected these boys and I’m sure they’ll take to heart why Jeff cared enough to jump on them about their schooling. After a stop at the “Big Chair” and two other stops, it was time to say good bye to D.C. Central Kitchen and hello to Christ House.

Christ House’s main focus is medical care of the patients that are homeless. So much love is in this tight “Family Bubble” as a resident there called it. Our group had the honor of helping Michelle, the cook at Christ House, in preparing a meal for all of residents. It was also a blessing to get a chance to eat with the people of call Christ House their home and talk to them about their lives or just a simple story about whatever they felt like saying to us.

Both places were terrific experiences and the passion that the volunteers and the staff have for these clients is unbelievable and unwavering. It makes all of us reconsider our career paths and try to think of ways we can use our planned futures to help in these types of situations. An ongoing saying on our trip has been that you only live once and what is a better way to live than giving back to the people who inspire us. Live every day like it’s your last. Help as many people as you can. Make a difference. I am convinced little by little that we were making differences.