A Cold Night and a Warm Meal - Jillian Gowaski

When I was in high school, I signed up to volunteer at our local church for a community soup kitchen. At first, I signed up because I needed the community service hours and I thought it was a good idea for my college apps to make me look more “well-rounded”. It was not until I went and helped out that I realized it meant so much more. Growing up in Massachusetts, the winters are very brisk and frigid, especially for those who may not be as fortunate. The holidays especially are a time of giving, and it became so apparent to me after that evening that I spent time in the soup kitchen.

My town in winter

When I first got there, there was a small group of about four of us who started setting up the tables and plates and setting out the food that had already been made. At around six, people started to file into the church and grab a plate. We had soup, a salad, rolls, lemonade, water and so much more. I was in awe at everyone who had come together to donate this food to help out our community. It was a very large spread that we put on, and it was amazing to see just how many people we could feed. As the night went on, I busied myself with filling up drinks, and helping clear tables to make room for more people to join and get food. Not only that, but I was able to talk to people in my town who had come and to learn more about their life and just who they are. Everyone has a story, and I loved being able to listen to people share theirs. It was amazing to see so many different people all coming together to share a warm meal on a cold night.

Our community was connecting with each other through food, and it was something I will never forget. At the end of the night and we said goodbye to the last person, we all started to clean up and as I was talking with the other volunteers, it was clear to see how much this meant to them and how fortunate they felt to be able to help out their greater community.

I learned how important it is to help out and to just be humble and willing to listen and do what you can for others. Not only is it good for the community, but it also gives you a sense of pride and happiness knowing that you are doing something good and right.

After that night, I realized I loved helping others and giving back when I can, and I signed up for the next week’s soup kitchen right then and there. The food connected all of us, and I know it definitely made a difference not only just in those people's lives, but also in mine. I think a lot of times people, myself included, take food for granted or do not have to necessarily worry where our next meal is coming from, and I think it is good to take a step back and realize others may not have that same luxury, so it is important to help.