Tent City

This weekend, Toledo held it's annual Tent City. This event is meant to raise awareness for the needs of the homeless in our city. It also provides the opportunity for many of the "un-housed" to obtain services; flu shots, haircuts, warm clothes & hot meals. There are also services there to help them obtain copies of their birth certificates, etc & job counseling. The organizers goal is to help at least one person each year get off the streets.
Although I conduct several fund raisers each year to donate blankets, food, etc. this was the first year that we have volunteered our time at this event. Joe, the girls & I spent the first half of the day assisting the wonderful organizers of this event. We helped out in the donation tent; sorting donated clothes & helping distribute it to those in need. We also spent a lot of time just talking to the people (or I should say listening). These people have such amazing stories; some are still struggling, some on their way back up, some were un-housed last year & now come back to help others.
This weekend is an amazing example of humanity & compassion. The organizers spend countless hours getting everything together for these 3 days. It does not go unappreciated. The recipients of the food & clothing are sooo very grateful & are not shy in expressing their gratitude.
Don't we all give thanks & blessings everytime we receive a hot meal?