The group that went to Franciscan Outreach today helped with the daily supper for homeless people. Our students partnered with full-time adult volunteers at the Marquand Center who work full-time in support ministries for homeless men.
At their supper, their prepare trays of food and wait on the people who come to eat. The clients come sit down and hold up their ticket. A volunteer then comes with their tray and cup and follows up with any other things they need at their tables. Volunteers also take care of the dishes, cleanup, and other logistics to make the clients comfortable and at home.
On Thursday night, we served 159 clients for dinner. Students had a blast.
Later on Thursday, we convened in Lakeview at the intersection of Clark & Belmont. This spot is a frequent meeting point for homeless teenagers because the neighborhood is very busy and lively, very bright, and full of public places and stores and restaurants that are open 24-7. Moreover, for the population of teens who identify as LGBTQ, the neighborhood is very friendly and accommodating to different lifestyles.
Students had 45 minutes to explore the neighborhood and determine their best ideas for how to eat, stay warm, go to the bathroom, and sleep all while thinking they had only the $5 in their pocket, not knowing where the next money would come from. They were encouraged to go into stores, explore different streets, talk to passers-by, and put themselves in the shoes of homeless teens.
Students were resourceful in exploring. For instance, one group spoke with the people behind the counter at Domino's and asking what they'd be willing to do. These workers said they do give away food to people who ask, but that they try to discern who is truly needy versus who might be freeloading - a tough task for sure.
At night's end, five students stayed on for the optional "box town" sleepover. We took cardboard boxes and created a small village in the school courtyard parking lot. We created these cardboard shelters and used only minimal bedding for our night's sleep. The seven of us slept outside overnight, in solidarity with all those who went without true shelter.
May God be with those who are homeless, so that we might all show greater solidarity with those who we marginalize.
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