Neighbors Anita and Chris pitch in with food distributions.

Breakthrough's Food Pantry Program is unique. Heaven's Harvest, as it is called, does not require people to wait in line to get groceries. The program promotes volunteerism and looks for ways to restore a sense of purpose and dignity to recipients. Two residents of a neighborhood apartment building for seniors explain how important the program is to them.

"I have arthritis in my legs," says Chris, a resident who is often wheelchair-bound. She goes on to explain the challenges that she and the others in her building face. "Many of us have trouble getting around," she says. "and it's four blocks in every direction from here to public transportation. That makes it hard to get food and other things we need."

Staff and volunteers personally deliver food boxes to over 50 shut-ins at the senior apartments. "It's such a blessing to have the food brought here," says Anita. At 52, she is a self-described "junior senior" building resident. "It means that 65 and 70 year old people don't have to wait in line, especially on hot summer or cold winter days."

Breakthrough also encourages food recipients to help out, and many are eager to do so. Anita is able to get around reasonably well. "I help deliver the boxes to the residents here," she says. Anita also helps unload the truck from time to time. And even Chris gets involved. "When I'm able to, I watch the rest of the boxes while Anita is making a delivery," she says. Volunteerism is not new for the two women. Since it can be dangerous for residents to walk around alone, their building has a citizen patrol team, and both women are active members.

Besides the obvious blessing of receiving much-needed food assistance, Heaven's Harvest is another way to bring people together. "When I take food around, I get to check in on my neighbors here and make sure they're doing okay," says Anita. "I like to visit with them."

Zachary is three years old and lives in the western suburbs with his parents and sister.

Young Zachary had money saved in his dresser drawer. He recently donated it to Breakthrough. His mother, Karen, talks about it here.

How did Zachary's donation come about?
During bedtime prayers, we pray regularly for people who do not have food or a place to sleep. This, in part, prompted a statement from Zachary one day that he wanted to give all his money to help poor people. He brought the issue up more than once, and my husband and I wanted to encourage generosity and empathy. Since Zachary is young, we thought taking him to Breakthrough to make his donation would be a great way to let him connect his desire to help with a need. He was very happy to get to give his money, and still prays for the people his money is helping.

Do you have any suggestion or ideas for parents who want to teach their kids about giving?
I think parents can help kids realize how much they have and (age appropriately) understand the inequalities around them. Trying to instill our responsibility and ability to get involved is crucial to raising kids who are other-focused.

How did your family hear about Breakthrough and how are you involved?
I used to attend First Free Church when I lived in Andersonville so I knew about Breakthrough. I'd volunteered in the past at the men's shelter and had a great experience.

What does Zachary like to do for fun?
He loves going to the park and playing with/tormenting his little sister.

Special thanks to Antonio and Jackie Perez and their service group from Willow Creek Extension ministries. The group has served faithfully for almost two years by making breakfast for our guests.

Our Manna Ministry Program seeks volunteers to prepare and serve breakfasts to our guests. For more information, contact Volunteer Coordinator, Scott Ruth, at 773.722.1144 x271 or sruth@breakthroughministries.com.