Since my last progress report, my internship organization has undergone several positive changes. The first that I observed was their inclusion of healthier items to put in the food boxes. Before this month, the majority of what was donated was high-calorie, fat, and sugar products that were not conducive to a well balanced diet. This was particularly concerning for me as the majority of the clients we were serving were families that had young children. A nutritious diet is essential for children to grow and develop normally and it would be tragic for the children’s health to be comprised due to financial instability. Along with an increase in fruits, vegetables, and healthier items, another food box program has been established to cater to diabetic and gluten-free clients so that they too can benefit from this organization’s food distribution program.
Staff members are also making more of an effort to guide volunteers about how they should interact with clients. One of the core values of this Christian nonprofit organization is that every person, regardless of their race, religion, background, gender, and socioeconomic status is deserving of respect, care, and love. The head of the organization reminded all of us that, “it’s not just about an armful of clothes or a food box, it is the spirit in which it is given.” This message speaks volumes about the organization’s attitude towards those in need. They really endeavor to ensure that each client who walks through the doors is made to feel special and important, instead of degraded or shamed for having to accept a “handout.” This organization does not blame the people it serves for their situations and need for assistance.
My internship makes a massive difference in the lives of the local community whom it serves. However, on a macro level, this organization is not doing much to end hunger and homeless. This is because their efforts are targeted towards providing resources to individuals instead of focusing on challenging the system that creates these types of issues. The Blessing Center’s mission is not to change the structural causes of hunger, but to do what they can to help the individuals whose wellbeing is compromised by it. They do not focus on amending government policies or lobbying for political change relating to such issue. While this does not ultimately work towards eliminating hunger in the United States, the Blessing Center is still a significant organization because of the difference they make in the lives of the community members they feed and clothe.