Citizen Journalist by dave lo, volunteer & neighbor
edited by sarina e. guerra
This Thanksgiving, I had the incredible opportunity to help the #slabcitycareclub cook a holiday meal for over 130 people in need. As a volunteer who spent much of the day in the kitchen preparing food, I can honestly say that this was one of the most moving and rewarding experiences of my life. It wasnât just about the food, it was about serving our community in a much deeper way â by creating a space where people from all walks of life could come together to share not just a meal, but a sense of belonging and warmth.
From the moment I arrived, I felt a sense of purpose in the air. The planning for this event had been months in the making, but when it came time to get in the kitchen, it was clear that every detail had been carefully thought out to ensure that this meal would be special for everyone involved. There was so much love put into each dishâfrom the ham to the mashed potatoes to the pecan piesâeverything was made with care, knowing that it would go to people who might not have a place to celebrate the holiday otherwise.
As I cooked alongside other volunteers, I couldnât help but feel a deep connection to the mission we were all working toward. Somehow, it was like we all knew our unspoken goal was to make sure that each person who walked through the door would feel valued and cared for. We wanted to assure them that no matter their circumstances, they deserved to experience the comfort and joy of a warm holiday meal.
What struck me most, though, was the change in the atmosphere once we started serving the food. As people of all different backgrounds came in to eat, I was moved by how,- for a brief momentâthere were no barriers. No one paid any mind to differences of race, income, or background. We were all just people, gathered together in one place, breaking bread as one family. I watched as strangers shared tables, laughed together, and enjoyed the delicious food we had worked so hard to prepare. It was humbling to witness how something as simple as a meal could bring so many people together in such a meaningful way.
It was also incredibly moving to hear the gratitude from the guests. So many people expressed how much this meal meant to themânot just for the food itself, but for the kindness and care that had gone into it. Some shared stories of hardship, others of hope, but all were grateful for the opportunity to sit down and enjoy a meal with others. It reminded me that for many, a holiday meal like this isnât just about the food; itâs about the human connection, the warmth, and the sense of being part of something bigger.
The volunteers who helped make this meal possible were truly selfless. From the cooks to the servers to the people who helped set up and clean up, everyone gave their time and energy without hesitation. It was inspiring to see how many people came together to support this cause, and how our differences didnât seem to matter while we all focused on pitching in and giving back. The generosity of spirit and heart was something Iâll never forget. It truly showed me the power of community and how much we can accomplish when we all come together for a common purpose.
This Thanksgiving, I left with my heart fullânot just from the satisfaction of knowing we had fed so many, but from the powerful experience of witnessing our community come together in such a meaningful way. It reminded me thatâŚ
There is always someone willing to help, to share, and to show kindness. And that, more than anything, is what makes events like this so special.
I am so grateful to have had the chance to be a part of something so impactful. Thank you to everyone who contributed, volunteered, and made this meal possible. Your generosity and support made this Thanksgiving unforgettable, and I hope that the spirit of love and community we felt that day will carry us all through the year. Itâs a reminder that kindness and compassion are always the best things we can share.
Part of the Slab City Residents Break Bread â and Boundaries Collection
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