Monday, September 29, 2008

Chaos Theory

Sometimes we use the phrase “chaos is good.” We don’t mean that in the context of how we do our planning or structure programs, but in the situations that arise out of the daily activities in our soup kitchen. A case in point is from last Thursday, when ten high-energy teenagers from Tohickon Middle School arrived to help serve the afternoon meal. If you haven’t been inside Manna on Main Street, the amount of operating space we have is very small, and in a short period of time, chaos ensued. Teens were crammed in the kitchen, then running with plates of food along a cramped hallway to a crowded eating area. A group of the kids wound of going outside and working at a card table to put together snack bags for the local Boys & Girls Club. Naturally, they couldn’t stay outside all the time, and were running in and out. And as the time for serving came to a close, there was a mad scramble for colored markers as the youth found an open space on the wall to sign their names. While it may seem unstructured and out of control, a lot of good comes out it. Young people learn about serving people in need, perform vital hands-on service and have some fun along the way.

Tuesday, September 16, 2008

Gangs on Call


We're pretty fortunate. Whenever we run low on food for our pantry, we have a number of groups we can call for help. For the past couple of years the Iron Eagles Motorcycle Club has been amazing in their support. We call them and they show up with a truck-load of food. At the same time, we try not to go back to the same people too frequently. They have families to support too.


The spirit of giving is a real reflection on the kind of community we live in. When people become aware of the needs, they respond in big way. As you can imagine, the need for food has risen dramatically. We've been running low on canned tuna fish and would really appreciate having that available for the families who come to Manna for food. So now that you're in the know, help if you can, and pass this message along. Thanks!

Tuesday, September 2, 2008

Summer Help


His mother wanted him to have something to do this this summer, and so Alex wound up coming in to Manna on Main Street, 8 hours a day, three days a week. At first he wasn't sure how everything would work out, but it wasn't too long before he started feeling at home.

Alex helped with cooking food and serving, but what he enjoyed most was the people. By the end of the summer, Alex was concerned that he wouldn't be here to help his new friend Harry, an older gentleman who helps stock our shelves.
Alex is just another example of how young people become involved and help make a difference in our community.