Giving Back and Staying Warm: Volunteer Wave at Belkin House

On November 24, we once again visited The Salvation Army Belkin House to support both the kitchen team and the ongoing clothing drive. Although we had only 5 volunteers to cover both tasks, everyone worked together with great teamwork and positivity to deliver the best experience possible for the residents. We are especially grateful for Olive and Alvin, who warmly accommodated and supported us throughout the entire visit.

For kitchen support, two of our three volunteers were new to Belkin House, but we were excited to learn about the facility and the tasks assigned by the chef and kitchen staff. Throughout the shift, we helped with cutting cake, preparing sausages, filling juice and iced tea trays, serving residents, cleaning, and dishwashing. Despite being newer volunteers, we truly enjoyed the overall experience. The mission of Belkin House made a strong impression on them. One volunteer was so inspired that they even signed up on the spot to become an individual Belkin House volunteer.

For the clothing drive, Olive kindly assisted us by bringing additional donations from the storage room and helping set up a table in the communal room to attract more residents. We also received donations from our volunteers throughout the month, mainly winter essentials such as coats, jackets, blankets, socks, sweaters, sweatpants, along with purses, shoes, hats, and other accessories. Residents shared how grateful they were to find items that would help keep them warm throughout the winter, and many left with pieces they truly needed.

We always love coming back to support Belkin House and their meaningful mission for the community, and we look forward to continuing this partnership for many visits to come.