Autumn is often a sentimental time of year as we transition into the holiday season. Minds turn to memories of past special meals and celebrations, time spent with family and friends, and other fun yearly traditions.
Happily, one fall tradition that many local families value is volunteerism, and giving back to the community. As the Missouri Agency Relations Manager, my job at the Foodbank is to serve as the connection between our organization and the food pantries, soup kitchens and residential facilities in the community that distribute the product that they receive from our warehouse. During the holiday season, I receive a multitude of requests on a weekly basis from service-minded individuals looking for their chance to lend a hand at one of the Foodbank’s agencies. The abundance of giving from the community is heartwarming, and I am pleased to steer them in the direction of a fun service opportunity.
Lend a hand at an agency in your neighborhood
One great way to give back is to volunteer at a pantry or soup kitchen in your area in the weeks leading up to Thanksgiving and Christmas. During this time, much of the vital prep work is being put in to build holiday baskets, and facilitate the other holiday distributions that make this time of year so special for clients. In order to make access to these sites easy our website has a list of all partner agencies, which can be sorted by zip code. Those interested in volunteering in this way are welcome to reach out to agencies in their area in order to keep their impact close to home. Find an agency near you.
Volunteer to serve Thanksgiving Dinner
A compelling way to really get into the holiday spirit is serving a Thanksgiving meal at one of our local soup kitchens. The St. Louis Dream Center is hosting a Thanksgiving meal for its clients on Thursday, November 27th. The agency has requested volunteer assistance from 11-2 that day. For more information, or to sign up, please call 314-381-0700.
As the leaves change and the air becomes crisp, we are reminded of the many holiday seasons past, and anticipate the fun times yet to come. Lending time to one of our local agencies is a sure way to make this season merry and bright for not only your family, but also for our neighbors in need.
By Sara Lewis
MO Agency Relations Manager
