Volunteers of the Week

After having many opportunities to volunteer within our community, this is truly one of the most inspirational experience that we have had; and definitely one that will continue to be part of our lives. Having the opportunity to serve with our friends and family has completed our holiday season.

Knowing that 100% of donations go to the cause, is ran and operated by volunteers, how it provides the opportunity for a forgotten community of people, restores their faith and teaches them how to “eat for life”.

The best gift we received from the day was during the award ceremony when we saw true gratitude when a worker received bus tokens as an award for her work ethic – talk about a reality check… Also how our friends and family were inspired through their experience.

-Craig & Antoinette

Food on Foot is an opportunity for me to be completely selfless and of service to those who truly need help. FOF inspires me to be a better, more loving person.


What I like most about Food on Foot is the interaction with the people. Their lives are so incredibly challenging and painful yet they still smile and thank you for the food. I am amazed by their perseverance and tenacity in spite of their situation.


Today there were many families with young children. I was in tears from the gleeful laughter from the children who held their plastic bags out with happiness as they received their chicken dinners. To them, a warm dinner was the happiest gift of the day or for some the week. It puts everything in life into perspective.

-Lauren

I think Food on Foot is great in that there is no huge organization and everyone gets to participate directly. You can see what one person can do to make a difference and what one can do, whether monetarily or volunteering to help. The impact is direct, immediate and much needed. It was so wonderful to see the individual growth of people like Daniel and that FOF provides tools to individuals to change their lives directly, by providing food, clothes and jobs... helping people off the streets and showing them that there are other possibilities.


As a mother of three young girls (9,4 and 13 weeks), I felt grateful for our health and everything we had especially when we fed several moms and their children coming through the line. I was happy my girls were there to help. I hope watching and being involved will show them we all have an obligation to give back to others.

-Thea

Between the active professional and personal lives we all lead, its easy to forget that life is full of small miracles. For me, Food on Foot is one of those miracles. Actually FOF is a bunch of small miracles that come together to create one huge exceptional miracle. From the volunteers that are present every weekend, to the donors who sponsor a feeding, to the sheer passion and commitment the founder has for the program, one might find that criteria enough to be considered miraculous. And let's not forget the Work for Food participants - what a stellar group of people for whom I have absolute respect. Then there are the homeless and needy who attend the feedings in need of food and clothing. I find such delight in the smiles and surprise of those who have all but forgotten how it feels to be treated with respect and to be listened to and looked in the eye, rather than being looked past. The gratitude of those around me, the familiar faces, and the inevitable joke told with exceptional timing help to give a name to those in need in our own communities. For me, every feeding is a real life miracle that I'm proud to be part of and there's no other place I'd rather be on Saturday.

-TJ

Food on foot is a magnificent program. It shows that people care about others who are less fortunate and, believe me, that is very positive to see these days.

During my first experience with food on foot, I was handing out lollipops to everyone in line. Without fail, I was thanked by all as they received their lollipop. Two people said, thank you for listening and talking to me. It was amazing how wonderful I felt inside knowing that by just lending an ear, someone could be so thankful.

I also had the opportunity to participate in the Make a Wish Day. This day was very special to me because the many individuals that I spoke with were very open and, I hope, honest describing what they have been through. I learned that no matter who you are and what job you presently hold, it could all be over tomorrow. I felt as though some of the adults that were there to have wishes granted were more appreciative of someone just listening to their stories and the wish was secondary. And, of course, the children had very unselfish wishes too. I am happy that I can grant a few of them and look forward to giving out my gifts. After all, everyone needs a little help sometime.

-Michelle

Food on Foot means food for families and individuals that are in transition that need support at this time due to their circumstances. Food on Foot supports those willing to work and become productive in the near future.

What I like most about the organization is the individuals who are willing to recognize the needs of others and willing to do something about it.

I appreciate the volunteering experience because my son is able to see what giving means. This is a first and lasting experience for both of us.

-Carl

Food on Foot means being grateful for what you have and
demonstrating that by helping the less fortunate.

My favorite part about Food on Foot is that it helps
the homeless eat, AND it helps them get their feet
under them again. Many charities only supply food,
not the compassion to help them feed themselves again.

Each feeding makes me feel grateful for what I have,
and amazement on what Jay has accomplished. All of
the homeless are so grateful for the food and the kind
words. But then after the food, we gather to give out
awards for the work for food crew. That's where you
get to see that the food is only the beginning of this
organization. The work for food crew helps the
homeless adjust to a working situation again, and gets
them started on the right foot to move on into a
paying job. That is something amazing to see each
weekend.

-Julie Anne

Volunteering for FOF is a humbling and uplifting experience. I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of something so important.

I enjoy the interaction between the volunteers and the recipients. People who would normally pass each other on the street and not even acknowledge one another pause and for a moment there is a connection and it's a good one.


An experience I remember was when a young woman, probably in her late teens or early twenties, was searching through the donated clothing. She would pick one thing up, then put it down and search some more. I finally asked if she needed help finding anything in particular and she said yes, she was trying to find clothes she could wear to a job interview in the coming week. She was hoping that landing this job would be a way for her to get her own place and not have to live on the street. We finally found an outfit (including shoes) that would work for an interview. She was so happy and hopeful and so was I.

-Susan

We had been looking for a way to get involved in our
community and that is where Food on Foot comes in.

What a great opportunity we all have to do something
in this world. The Food on Foot organization not only
helps provide basic needs to people who are less
fortunate, but our favorite part of the feedings is
the personal contact. Many people brighten up just when
you say hello and begin to remember you each week.
Not only are these people starving for food and
shelter, but have also forgotten what it is like to be
respected and listened to. It's easy to write a check
to support organizations (which is also a vital part)
but then you can never understand the other basic
needs these people long for. We are proud to be a
part of that and appreciate the opportunity.

Our first visit gave us a great respect for the
organization and how well it is run. A little over an
hour of your time and around 200 people have received
food and clothing. It is amazing how such a short
amount of time each week not only effects the people
coming to the feedings, but can also effect your daily
life in a positive way.

- Michal and Wes

Living in Venice, FOF gives me an opportunity to directly contribute to my community.

FOF is effective in it's direct approach to addressing the needs of the homeless: food and
work. The feedings reach across a wide range of people and families who
need it. It also puts individuals in touch with the Work For Food program
that is a step in the right direction.

The Work for Food awards ceremony at the Hollywood feeding emphasizes the opportunity
that Food on Foot provides and where my contribution is going.

-Kevin

When I attend Food on Foot, I reflect on how blessed I am in my own life. It is a place that I can give at least a little bit of myself to those who are not as fortunate as I.

I like that Food on Foot is structured in a way that the workers learn important lessons and have an opportunity to better their situations through hard work and dedication . My favorite part is at the end when we do the awards ceremony. I love seeing the pride and glow in the workers' faces.

Most recently, I was passing out the drinks and a little boy got so excited over the milk we were passing out. His face lit up as we handed him his milk. Sorry, I had to give him two.

-Evette

I'm pretty new to Food on Foot, and wasn't quite sure what to expect when I first signed up. I was very quickly impressed, though, with how organized everything is, and how professionally the project is run. It's an easy, fun way to spend a Sunday afternoon, and my favorite part of it is the people I meet, both volunteers and people who show up for a meal. I've met other volunteers who work in the same industry, and enjoyed talking about our respective jobs, and am always entertained by the lengths people in the line will go to charm you into giving them an extra fruit pack or tootsie roll (this week I had a drag queen gleefully perform a dirty poem based on Little Red Riding Hood for me).

-Sandi

Food on foot not only means feeding the homeless
physically, but feeding those who hunger for
encouragement, emotional security, and
accountability.

What I like most about Food on foot is that it aids
in increasing self-esteem through the theory of
accountability, dependability, and positive
reinforcement. I believe in the mission of Food on
foot, thus I feel that I am funding an organization
that believes in the same values that I believe in.

In the last feeding that I attended, the FOF staff gave out
rewards to those workers that worked hard that week
and were dedicated in doing the duties. As the staff was
handing out the rewards I saw proud faces of the
recipients and the eagerness to succeed. I took joy in
that knowing that I am funding an organization that
only feeds the physical body, but the soul as well.

-Jennifer

The most interesting aspect of Food on Foot has been its longevity.
I have always suffered from a short attention span and seeing people committed to a single cause for years, maintaining that passion, interest and involvement have been a great inspiration and teacher.

Also, every time I participate I have brought clothing to donate. I have made a point in my life to try to minimize my need for accumulating MORE. To challenge myself to donate clothing every time I volunteer is re-enforcing in me how little I need things and how much those things can mean to others who are REALLY in need.

The ease of being involved and volunteering. I work in advertising production and my schedule fluctuates constantly.
I can determine my schedule and volunteer as I am able. I have tried many times in the past to become involved as a volunteer with other organizations and they had time requirements- which I could not commit to.


Pollution and environment are also a big concern. Food on Foot has participants earning meals and food by cleaning up the neighborhood.... MY neighborhood, our neighborhood, my city, this city.


The goal here is clear and the organization is: just that.... organized. In researching other volunteer organizations, one of the other things I experienced was frustration. The groups seem to be mired in DIS-organization and inept management. With Food on Foot- its goals are clear, its objective is accomplished and you see exactly where all of the resources are going; you see exactly how all the efforts are manifested.

At every feeding, I have encountered people who I am somehow connected to. Because the Food on Foot staff makes the effort of establishing ties; you discover that are connected in ways you would not have otherwise known. I also discovered an old friend was also volunteering (hi Andrew J.!) And to know that I am connected to other volunteers made me immediately feel... connected!


The other great thing is seeing the people you are not connected to in any way. The experience of people so different than yourself; people from such diverse professions, political views- just DIFFERENT- all coming together to work together also enhances my spirit.

What Food on Foot means to me is an opportunity to consistently assist those in need on a face-to-face level, and to support the efforts of the FOF community, one which is represents to me a genuine example of community of support.

What I like most about FOF is the staff’s enthusiasm.

An experience I remember is from a Hollywood feeding this month where I brought my entire family for the first time, and saw my children participating in the set-up, socialization, and giving of the event. I look forward to this experience being repeated indefinitely for FOF.

-Brian

Food on Foot gives me an opportunity to give something back to the community, and help those who need it.


What I like about Food on Foot are the people from all walks of life that support the group. I also like the fact that each and every person receiving help from Food on Foot says thank you and appreciates what we are doing for them.


Each time I help and see the people that need it I feel very lucky to be in the position I'm in.


-John

Food on Foot mean that I can devote some of my time to sharing with others that are not as fortunate as I have been over the years.
I like the fact that Food on Foot give to people without asking for anything back. When I first came and brought the kids from my church and we brought clothes, you did not monitor what people took and I like that. So many people give with strings attached, I think the people that come recognizes this as well.

Since I have only fed for two Sunday, I don't have any special experiences. I just know that I feel better after I have been there and I come to work and tell the people here how great it makes one feel.
-Eutha

Food on Foot is a way to give of yourself to someone
else for a few hours every weekend. It's a place where
I can help feed someone who is hungry, talk to someone
who needs talking to, and bring a smile to someone who
needs a smile. Over time you get to know everyone,
some more than others, and I'm glad I can make a
difference in someone's life during that time. It
makes you appreciate what you have each day, and you
leave feeling inspired to do more in your own life and
for the people around you.

Food on Foot understands the larger picture of
homelessness in Los Angeles on many levels. This is a
place where the volunteers and staff work hard to
bring former homeless people back into the workforce
again in addition to providing necessary food on a
consistent basis. You see the donations of time and
money make a tangible difference in the lives of
everyone that comes together each weekend. Thank you
FOF!

Sincerely,
Andre Freimann

Love Thy Neighbor

A couple of months ago, my co-worker and dear friend, Marie, told me that FOF needed volunteers to help out with a large mailing, so I came along to help stuff envelopes. I spent several evenings stuffing (and moistening) envelopes with FOF volunteers from all walks of life who shared moving stories and funny anecdotes about their experiences over the years.

I just attended my first feeding where I had the unique opportunity of meeting some of the homeless people who came for what was the only healthy meal they and their children would have that day. There was an elderly man in line who was sitting on the ground all by himself, so I asked him if he was okay. He told me that he had Diabetes and couldn't stand for long. He asked me if I was working off some court-appointed community service. He was surprised to learn that I wasn't. "You mean you came here out of the goodness of your heart?" he asked. I nodded yes and he gave me the biggest smile and thanked me. If there's a moment all volunteers have when they become "hooked," that was it for me. Serving food to the homeless is a very humbling and fulfilling experience. Volunteering with FOF reminded me that the homeless people we see every day live in our communities and are, in fact, our neighbors.

The LA Times recently published an article about severe budget cuts to our nation's Section 8 program. That means fewer vouchers to go around, less available low-income housing and more families than ever before living in the shelters and on the streets of Los Angeles. I'm going to do whatever I can to help and I pray that you will too. Why wait for the holidays when you, your family and your company can make a difference now. Whether it is a charitable donation to purchase food, transportation and postage or providing some of the much needed essentials we all take for granted, FOF needs your help.

When was the last time you (or your kids) did something "out of the goodness of your heart?" If it takes you more than a couple of seconds to answer that question, I encourage you to come to a feeding and get involved.

In His Service,
Sandy Sanders

There is no greater deed than to give and to give unconditionally. I joined Food on Foot to help out
my brothers and sisters in need, who are less fortune than myself. Food on Foot does an amazing
job of providing for those who are less fortunate.

-Tim

Food on Foot provides a valuable opportunity to interact with those in need, to provide them with immediate relief and to work alongside fellow volunteers who really care about helping others. If ever I have doubts about the state of humanity, this program restores my faith on a weekly basis.


I am most impressed with the Work for Food program. The appreciation of those who benefit from Food on Foot feedings is evident each week. But what really sets this organization apart is the opportunity for clients to take an active role in bettering their situation. Work for Food empowers the individual and takes the pivotal next step toward finding a permanent solution for homelessness.

I look forward to the awards ceremony at the end of each feeding because it feels great to applaud the efforts of the Work for Food crew. I was able to witness the promotion of one of the team members to the "inside crew" a couple of weeks ago and it was a wonderful moment. The look of pride on that workers face was indelible and I felt like I was witnessing the beginning of a true success story.

-Jacquie

To me Food on Foot means being able to provide one of the most essential necessities in life – Food; to those who need it the most. It gives me an opportunity to bring even a little bit of comfort to those who benefit from this program.



What I like the most about Food on Foot is that it produces immediate results. I also enjoy being able to directly interact with those who benefit from this program. Most of these people have very low self-steam, and it amazing how a simple smile or having a simple conversation with then can brighten up their day.



Every Saturday and Sunday we as volunteers get together to give something to the homeless. But I realized that I am receiving more than what I am giving, by their shy smiles and their quite thank you; they feel me with an overwhelming sense of love, humility and gratitude. They always remind me to be humble.


As humans beings we all deserve to be treated with respect, and no one should be put down, regardless of their situation. Food on Foot is an amazing program, it brings food to those who need it, but it also helps those who benefit from the program, find respect and self steam within themselves. – Karla

Food on Foot, to me, encompasses much more than taking a couple of hours out of your day to feed the homeless. Although an extraordinary feeling of joy is achieved simply by feeding people who would otherwise go hungry, there is a more important underlying reason for this programs purpose. Food on Foot provides a foundation upon which we can build a much more diverse community where people actually come together and understand one another, rather than living in an isolated society where we feel as if we have to conceal ourselves from a certain group.



The greatest part about the Food on Foot program is getting to know the diversity of the community and to establish new relationships with familiar faces. Although I am new to this program, I hope to make new friends with both volunteers and the homeless, disabled, elderly, and low-income adults and children.



The first meeting I attended I had a great conversation with a man who I later found out attended Chapman University as a film student. Unfortunately, things did not work out well for him and he was experiencing financial difficulties. However, just by helping him out and getting to know him, the man was extremely appreciative and allowed us to take our picture with him.

-Alee

Food on Foot is about the people we serve. I am deeply touched by the warmth, friendliness, and gratitude of the people receiving food and clothing. I feel a bond with them that simply says we are brothers and sisters who happen to be separated by social or economic conditions, but who are not separated in Gods eyes.



I am most impressed by the empowerment Foot on Foot extends to the recipients who choose to work as part of the volunteer effort. Food on Foot is unique among giving organizations in publicly recognizing those recipient-volunteers who show competency and consistency in the set-up or clean-up work that makes the weekend distribution possible. First, the recognition is every week, and it follows immediately after the distribution is complete. Secondly, the person is honored with specific information about the number of weeks the person has served and the quality of his or her efforts. The recognition is therefore based on actual performance and merit. I see the faces and body language of the recipients as they receive their recognition, and I know that what they receive then is as important as the food or clothing they receive: they feel the pride, the dignity and worth that all human beings crave and deserve.




I have a 17 year old daughter, and so as a dad, I think my heart responds most to the image of a teen-age girl standing in line waiting for the distribution to begin. She was with her family, a family obviously struggling to hold together. She was about my daughters age, maybe a year or two younger, and even looked like my daughter, except that she was thinner (and my daughter is too thin already). I could also read in her eyes and posture that she was carrying a heavy burden, and maybe even depressed that this had become her life, a life so different than any normal teenage girl would want to live. I could not change this young lady’s personal circumstances, but more important than the mint I handed to her and others around her as they waited, I could offer what I had: a smile, a warm hello, and an attitude in that moment that she was important and loved. I don’t know if I got that message across to her in such a short exchange. I know I deeply hope I did.


-Frank

I had been thinking for some time about "giving back" to others. But I never did. And then, at a point in my life when I wasn't feeling so great, I decided to finally do it. So, as you'll recall, my first time out was Thanksgiving Day 2003 in Hollywood. Helping out with Food on Foot just seemed right. It just seems like the right thing to do. What goes around, comes around. I can equate what Food on Foot means to me this way: As a young journalist, I was able to learn from some of the top people in my profession. When I gained more experience, I was able to help aspiring journalists the way I was once helped. It felt good. Likewise, I'm just helping others via Food on Foot. It just seems right to give back and to help others in whatever little way I can.

What I like most about Food on Foot is interacting with the people as they walk along the line, saying hi, or seeing them smile and say thank you. Sadly, what also stands out are the children whom I see each time.

-Len

I'm thankful to be part of an organization that does so much for
the less fortunate. It's great to be able to give back to my community
and to see first hand the difference it makes in peoples lives.



The thing I like most about FOF is that in addition to providing
meals, it gives people an opportunity to re-establish themselves with the
'work' program. FOF accomplishes what it sets out to do week after week.



I was extremely touched when passing out food to one of the guests
one week, he said he had something for me and handed me an angel. It is
always a pleasure talking with Mr. Fairbanks whom I was fortunate to
celebrate his 107th birthday with.

-Mary