Lending a Hand at Belkin House

This November, our Volunteer Wave members spent three meaningful days at Belkin House Salvation Army, supporting their programs in a variety of ways. On November 8, 10, and 16, volunteers stepped in wherever help was needed—prepping ingredients in the kitchen, making meals, tending the rooftop garden, and sorting clothing donations. Most of our time was spent in the kitchen, helping staff get meals ready for residents.

Belkin House provides meals, care, and essential resources to up to 224 residents, creating a supportive environment where people can access the help they need. From emergency shelter to transitional housing, their work focuses on meeting basic needs while offering dignity and care to every resident. Our volunteers got to see firsthand how each task, whether in the kitchen, garden, or sorting clothing, contributes to the smooth operation of the shelter and the well-being of its residents.

Over the three days, nearly 20 different volunteers joined us, bringing energy, care, and a willingness to lend a hand. In the kitchen, volunteers chopped, stirred, and plated meals, learning new skills and sharing the joy of working together. Others contributed in the garden, helping maintain the space and ensuring it stays a welcoming area for residents, while a few helped organize and sort clothing donations to make sure items were ready for anyone who needed them.

These shifts reminded us how versatile volunteering can be and how much of an impact even small contributions have. Every chopped vegetable, plated meal, and sorted clothing item played a part in supporting Belkin House’s mission of providing a safe, supportive, and dignified environment for residents.

We are grateful to everyone who joined us across these three days and to Belkin House for welcoming our volunteers once again. Seeing so many people come together to support their community highlights the power of teamwork and compassion in action.