25 Oct Neighbors joining hands; fighting hunger through volunteerism

 Intern Jaime here!  

This summer, I had the privilege of working with a group of people dedicated to providing food for those in need. At Long Island Cares, hard working men and women join hands to fight hunger on Long Island.  Founded by singer and song writer, Harry Chapin in 1980, Long Island Cares was the first food bank to open on the island. They provide food to a network of food pantries and soup kitchens, as well as, sponsor programs that spread nutritional education to local communities. 

My experience with Long Island Cares started with a little music…a radiothon. Tables and tents were set up at a Walmart parking lot where radio station DJ’s joined in on the action. Walmart shoppers were encouraged to donate non-perishable items to their preferred radio station. Meanwhile, radio callers could make donations as well. The radio station with the most donations at the end of the day was given the opportunity to give away Rascall Flatts tickets to a lucky fan. Ultimately, all of the donations were taken back to the LIC central food bank to be distributed. My job, as well as several other volunteers at the event handed out flyers and encouraged shoppers to visit the LIC booth! As I batted my eyes and said hello to everyone that passed me, I was surprised to see how many people reacted so negatively to this wholesome event. Some walked right past me, while others took a flyer and threw it out right in front of my eyes. I, too, am guilty of these actions as I can recall walking into a store in a hurry not wanting to be bothered. I am ashamed of these selfish acts and think of the unselfish mothers, fathers, and children whose only wish is to have a meal on the table every night.

The warm, friendly staff and volunteers at Long Island Cares really influenced my outlook on our small Long Island community and from a larger perspective, the world as a whole. They opened my eyes to the struggle that surrounds all of us, in America, that many of us have been too blind to see. When a volunteer position opened up for the Merrick Festival, I jumped on the opportunity.  Advertisements were placed in local newspapers, websites, and storefronts. A box, about twice the size of me was placed under a tent to collect food and monetary donations. A smoothie booth at the festival donated pounds upon pounds of leftover bananas.  It was extremely rewarding to see so many acts of kindness from our neighbors. As I am currently reading, The Working Poor by David Shipler, he too has opened my eyes to the “invisible” America. Shipler shares a quote by a woman who fell into poverty, “We don’t feel very poor. We feel poor when we can’t go to the doctor or fix the car. ” If we could all be a little less selfish and volunteer some of our free time, we can learn from these generous people and truly make a difference.