Sharing the Table

Recently, a family wanted to involve their children in volunteering and helping others. They had a daughter who was around 5, who you could tell had been coached by her parents– “we’re going to a shelter, people might do some things that are strange or scary, but mom and dad are right here…” Obviously, the parents had an image of what types of people are in shelter programs.

During the course of dinner, the girl told jokes and, while everyone cleaned up dishes, taught everyone a card game. As she left with her parents, one of our clients heard her ask her mom, “Where were all the homeless people?“ To her, it was just a big family dinner with new friends!

Every night of the week from 6:15-7:00 in Fullerton, there is an opportunity to share a meal with people who are on their way out of homelessness in our interim housing program. Volunteer groups will provide the components to share a meal for your group and 11 others (10 residents and 1 staff member). Typically, this looks like a potluck meal (for groups larger than 15, please contact our Volunteer Coordinator)

In sharing the meal, we see how we are all connected to each other in community and share similar hopes, dreams, and challenges. This can be a great opportunity for you to gain a wider perspective on the issue of homelessness in your community by meeting those directly affected. For many of our guests, before entering our program was their first encounter with “homelessness” and our program can provide the stability needed to correct course and regain steady employment and permanent housing. Our method seeks to combat the stigma of homelessness and so preserve the dignity of each individual that we serve.

We have a full kitchen available and also welcome “drop-off” meals if you are not able to stay the entire time.

Click here to view our calendar of available dates and more information!

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