How Many Boxes Of Groceries Can You Give Away In One Hour?
Posted by: Julia Masi, in Children's CharitiesThe annual Boxes of Love Thanksgiving food event at Children of the City is the only community service project with all the fun and excitement of a game of Beat The Clock.
The first shift of volunteers arrive at noon to help sort hundreds of pounds of canned food and non-perishables. They pack dozens of bags and boxes of groceries for families living below the poverty line in Sunset Park, Brooklyn.
At three o’clock sharp, the second shift is in place and Daniel Ramos goes over the game plan. Dividing the volunteers into three teams he explains that time is of the essence. We have one hour to distribute the boxes to the clients standing on the other side of the door.
A former Disney employee instructs the volunteers on ways to make the Children of the City headquarters the happiest place in Brooklyn.
Each family walks through the threshold to the applause and cheers of smiling volunteers. Ticket takers welcome guests in Spanish and English. The families are asked to chose between a canned ham or a frozen turkey package. Smiling volunteers carry the groceries and help shepard the kids outside. Everyone wishes each other a Happy Thanksgiving y Felice de Dia de Gracias.
Children of the City offers a variety of programs to help change the culture of poverty.