by Despina Kartson
When we arrived at 33rd Street in Manhattan for last night's soup run, a long line of hungry souls was waiting for us. With the help of some of our guests, we unpacked our food and clothing, set up tables and began serving.
A few guests asked for a second meal - for themselves or for a friend who was in another location watching their belongings. We are always happy to provide as much food as anyone wants and try to feed everyone who is in need. Sadly, last night after all of the meals were distributed and we had packed our cars, a man approached and asked for food. All we had was a granola bar and a bottle of water, which he gladly accepted.
We met a number of new individuals as well as some whom we see every month. A Canadian tourist stopped by to talk and was so touched by our service that she joined us in distributing clothing. We heard more "God bless you" comments than usual from those we served, thanking us and expressing their gratitude. A man stopped by to learn about our ministry and said he runs a non-profit that helps homeless individuals get back on their feet by setting up P.O. boxes for them, providing cell phones and other items.
The monthly Soup Run is made possible through the compassionate and generous support from so many including this month's sponsors, Stephanos and Helen Alexiou, Minos Samoladas and the volunteers who work behind the scenes to make it all come together. Thank you to Manny Louros and Zachary Karounos for preparing the chicken, rice and vegetables and everyone who helped pack and transport the meals and a dozen bins of clothing and toiletry items.
We are collecting tote bags, canvas grocery bags and backpacks. Drop off new or gently used bags and we will distribute them next month on June 28th. Please join us.
