Michelle Clark @ CCIL

Take two at CCIL was another success! As the group from Clark HS was slightly larger, students were able to split into two groups. One group stayed in the Community Pantry and passed out bags to over 100 patrons. The rainy weather did not encourage patrons to wait in line, but rather they trickled in over the three hours.

Because there was less of a rush, students were able to spend more time talking to each patron and helping to provide them with healthful food. Two girls set aside a whole turkey and waited to give to a grandmother with two small granddaughters with her. It was powerful to see these students thinking about getting food to suit each patron’s needs.

Meanwhile, the other group of students went into the kitchen to help serve lunch to those who live at CCIL. The transitional housing facility is home to families, single men and single women. This particular batch of students as also involved in direct service as they were able to provide a healthy and tasty meal to residents.

Another round of thanks to Chris at CCIL for making this a wonderful event for another group of our students!

Foreman @ CCIL

The students from Foreman High School spent the morning volunteering at the Chicago Christian Industrial League. Located in Lawndale, this transitional housing facility is home to single men and women as well as homeless families.

While they provide social services to their residents they also provide bags of food the local needy. Each Wednesday volunteers help put together sacks of dry goods, fresh vegetables and meat that are then distributed to those who need them.

The twelve students representing Foreman High School spent the morning packing some of those bags and distributing them, providing water to waiting patrons and passing out popsicles to children also waiting in line.

After a quick lunch break, students heard the story of one former patron who had been homeless and is now a counselor at CCIL. By hearing one man’s story, the students were able to see how their work today could affect the life of another.

Over the course of the day, our students helped distribute bags to over 150 patrons; delivered water and cleaned up the community pantry.

Thanks to Chris and CCIL for letting us spend the day in the Community Pantry!