Meet Alison
Alison Meek got involved with the London Food Bank during the pandemic when her job went online. She says she missed the social interaction that the foodbank provides.
After visiting the Pillar Nonprofit Network (A website devoted to directing visitors, “… in search for meaningful volunteer opportunities with our outstanding member organizations.”) She recognized the London Food Bank because she had donated to them in the past.
Her basic training included the usual route of sorting food, etc. and was happy to take over the computer intake duties when a spot became available.
She has direct face-to-face contact with the clients. She enjoys this in that she can encourage them when, for example, they might feel embarrass for having to visit the food bank. After 20 years as a business consultant, I agree. It’s so important to show clients you care: not seen as having a defensive culture.
Taking a world view, Alison also mentioned that new comers to Canada are increasingly from Ukraine and stats from the Government of Canada back her up. From March 17, 2022 and January 31, 2023: Applications received: 821,357; Applications approved: 526,796.
She says this is especially critical to those from Ukraine because of the tragic conditions they’ve been through.
In any event, she sees the volunteer’s role as limited: certainly not going to change the world. And, while that’s true, maybe, as long as we’re needed, we can change their world.
“And, when the broken hearted people
Living in the world agree
There will be an answer
Let it be”
Let It Be by the Beatles
https://youtu.be/PZZHtalmw_I
(Watch on YouTube!)
“We know music plays a key role in people’s understanding of the world.” – Isobel Soffer, co-founder & director, GlobalFest.
As you scroll through the written volunteer profiles, located at www.londonfoodbank.ca (clicking ‘about’), you’ll find wonderful examples of this along with song quotes that delicately string each story together… helping us narrate our experiences better than we can say them ourselves.
Consider Rebecca’s thoughts: She generally feels that if we don’t support the most vulnerable… then, we’ll all be the poorer for it.
Martina she also appreciates seeing families and admits to tossing in an extra chocolate bar or two as a treat to keep the kids smiling.
Brad says they suffer because of situations that are beyond their control: inflation, being displaced, unable to get affordable housing or a place to call their own with stable employment.
Marilyn says Londoner’s understand life can take a sharp turn for the worst… for any of us.
Janice: she’s seen grown men with tears in their eyes. That’s when we assure them that it’s okay; that’s why we’re here.
Patrick likes being part of the positive ‘spirit of giving’ he’s seen play out at the London Food Bank.
Kay points to being part of the mission to help others – with the most basic of needs – is truly its own reward.
Bruce says volunteering at the London Food Bank… is one within an environment that more readily heals your heart and soul.
Suze sums it up, “We all may be different but really we are the same.”
So thanks to everyone, for their time and encouragement with this writing project. Overwhelmingly, the love emanating from these interviewees has made that task easier.
As for Alison, one year later, she’s never looked back despite her job reverting to pre-pandemic times… still appreciating what she’s found at the food bank.
As the Beatles, concluded on their Abby Road album,
“And, in the end, the love you take,
is equal to the love you make.”