Arloa Sutter

Proverbs 31:8-9 "Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy."

These verses get right to the point. There are people in our society who are vulnerable, whose voices are not heard or respected. They are the children, the mentally ill, the disabled, the poor. Powerful special interest groups hire legal counsel, and recruit advocates and lobbyists to make sure that their causes are given voice. They do all they can to get their full piece of the pie. But who will advocate for those who cannot pay?

Who will speak for those whose agendas will not increase profits or move forward political agendas? This command from Scripture is for those of us who seek to follow God. We must take on the cause of the destitute, the poor and the needy, and see that their interests are advanced, that they receive fair treatment, that their rights are defended. We must not remain silent in the face of injustice. Scripture instructs us to become activists who speak up for the vulnerable.

Community volunteers Neicy, Arlene and Bonnie, with staff person, Sharron Baskins (second from left.) Volunteers Brandy and Charles are not pictured.

Many people are faced with the challenge of hunger and poor nutrition, including residents in East Garfield Park. The struggle to feed a family on one - or even two - minimum-wage salaries is an everyday reality brought on by several factors.

Due to economic circumstances, at least two generations have experienced poor nutrition and hunger. Due to necessity, individuals eventually develop a palate for cheap, unhealthy food. To further exacerbate the problem, few, if any, traditional grocery stores are available, leaving convenience stores as the main source for food purchases.

Over the past year, Breakthrough has partnered with residents in East Garfield Park to further develop our food pantry program. Food Services Coordinator, Sharron Baskins leads a team of "Heaven's Harvest" volunteers who help prepare and deliver boxes of canned goods to residents twice a month.

"We try to give people nutritious options," says Sharron. A typical box may contain meat, canned goods, rice, beans, potatoes, cereal, bread, tortillas and raisins. Informational meetings on nutrition and wellness are being developed, and future plans include offering more fresh produce.

Increasingly, community residents play a very important role in food distribution as volunteers. "They are a big help," says Sharron. "They live here, so they know what residents want and need." Currently, five community residents assist Sharron.

"I like to talk to people and help cheer them up," says Arlene, a food pantry volunteer. "I know there is need, and I'm happy to help." With several grandchildren in her own home, she understands the challenge to provide healthy meals.

Support Breakthrough's Annual Food Drive! Your support allows us to offer nutritious food choices to those in need!

Click here to JOIN US FOR THE ANNUAL HUNGER WALK on Saturday, June 18th.

Click here for a list of needed items if you plan to DONATE FOOD.

Click here to GIVE A FINANCIAL GIFT.

Verneise (Neicy) Taylor is a food pantry volunteer at Breakthrough's Joshua Center.

What do you enjoy most about volunteering?
I enjoy seeing the look on someone's face when they get the food. I know it's a relief to have help with the expense of groceries. I like spending the time to make a difference.

How long have you lived in the neighborhood?
13 years

How did you first hear about Breakthrough?
Some of the Breakthrough staff came knocking on my door to recruit my kids for the youth programs. Being the talker that I am, I kept them chatting on my porch all day long!

What other programs or services would you like to see for East Garfield Park?
It would be nice to have job training, job resources, and housing resources.