I rescue people...

This little dirt town is 40 miles from anything that could be called civilization. It was a really good choice on my part to come here to heal. Nine months later, I realize I felt almost “whole” again and needed something to do; something productive and of a contributory nature. My parents taught us that service to your community is a requirement to a happy life. In my adult life I learned that my community, for the most part, was made up of animals (dogs in particular) and animal people. I got involved in rescue work and for the next 20 plus years, in one way or another, I felt I was giving.

All that changed when I got sick 7 years ago. Now I find myself in Dirtville, and due to a number of factors, I am unable to do what I love. I still have a responsibility to contribute in order to make the world a better place. Now I rescue people.

The line of cars you see in the photo are people lined up to receive commodities. I manage a food bank and emergency food pantry. We also provide financial support to those in need. This assistance can come in many forms, from help with your mortgage and rent, to assistance with medical bills, car repair, or utilities. We have programs to help the elderly and disabled with home repair, maintenance and yard work. The organization maintains a thrift store and although everything in the store is for sale, it is also given freely if a client needs clothes, furniture or house wares.

Besides the food distribution our organization is not subsidized by any government program.

Everyone involved in this particular organization are volunteers, with the exception of people doing community service to avoid fines or jail. There aren’t a lot of us. About 30 people come in twice a month when we distribute food. Most days 4 to 7 people are giving their time to support 4 towns. Of these volunteers there are 2 under the age of 40. I am the only 50 something and everyone else is over 65, the majority over 75, two volunteers are in their 80’s and one is 96!!! Bless you Hazel!!! You are my hero and if I ever grow up I want to be you!!!

Every month, between commodities and emergency food boxes from the pantry, we distribute food to about 400 households. Recently, we see that number increasing by leaps and bounds.

Why do we not have people volunteering? I know it’s the same thing in every organization, club, and group. There is a few people who form the working core, others that show up when called and others that show up for the glory and the party. What I don’t get is if people are laid off and I know at least in this part of the world there is no work to be had, why are they not down here helping? They have time to sit in line for up to 4 hours and wait for the handouts, but no time to help their neighbor.

Yeah, I rescue people (with help) but give me a dog that needs some love and understanding any day…