Decades of Determination

At last! A free moment, in a quiet coffee shop, and time to tap away with a blog update. (If the truth be told, I'm also taking a break from writing a speech for next Monday, addressing a group of mostly retired women.)

These strong women came together in the 1970s to address the problem of hunger in the community I now call home. Their early efforts of feeding sandwiches and giving away yard-sale clothing has now mushroomed into something much larger. I am serving as assistant director of this program, and am so grateful for these women who stepped up to the plate so many years ago, to offer hope and help to people in need. Thanks to them, we now offer emergency groceries to over 75+ families each week, in addition to feeding a hot meal five days a week to over 1,000 people.

Several of these women are now well into their 70s, 80s, and 90s, and remain committed supporters to this outreach they began so many years ago. Ferociously loyal, they come each week: to work in the food pantry, to work in the clothes closet, to serve on the meal line. These dear ladies have seen it all, and indeed, are not shocked by anything! They seem to be unflappable, even in the most distressing, heart-wrenching situations... all while radiating a generosity that nearly takes your breath away. I marvel at their determination, at their commitment, at their abundant hearts that give and give and give.