|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 Katie English
Hi, my name is Katie English and I volunteered at the Food Bank in Greenville North Carolina which was established in 1980 and is a non-profit organization. Sadly, hunger remains a serious problem in central and eastern North Carolina. Almost half of the people served by the Food Bank’s network are children, and another 11 percent are elderly. Nearly half the families served are the “working poor,” people who work hard and still have to choose between eating and other basic necessities. In 2004-05, the Food Bank distributed over 31 million pounds of food to more than 860 partner agencies including soup kitchens, food pantries, shelters, and after school programs for children. Their mission is to provide food to people at risk of hunger in Pitt County and ensure that the less fortunate citizens can have a decent meal and will not go hungry. While at the Food Bank you can help raise money for the organization or you can volunteer at the facility. While volunteering you will have the chance to sort a variety of foods and ensure that they are ready to be given out and eaten by people who depend on their services.
In my experience I learned to be very thankful and appreciative for everything I have and not to take things for granted. I am very grateful for every meal I eat and everything I have knowing that some people can’t even afford meals to eat. I also learned not to waste food. I used to get different kinds of food, or not eat extra food on my plate and throw it away, but I’ve tried to eat everything I get and save leftovers for later so I don’t waste what many people would love to have. Another important thing I discovered is that a lot of time and money is needed for non-profit organizations and more volunteers definitely can get the job done and lot faster. Also a lot of money and volunteers are needed to ensure that the food bank is up and running and able to do all the wonderful things it does for Pitt County. This experience also helped me focus on others rather than my own problems. It felt so great to help others! I felt like I actually made a difference and positively influenced people’s lives. I realized this through raising money for the benefit of the food bank and to help the citizens of Pitt County. I also gained this knowledge through actually working with others at the food bank and making a difference. This has influenced my future because I will always remember these things that I have been taught and I will be able to stay optimistic about life and what I have and what is so graciously provided for me. Continuing to volunteer will also keep my mind on helping others and help me get through the days knowing that I have positively affected others lives and helped to feed the hungry residents in Pitt County.
| |
|
|
|
|
