Walking through the beautiful streets of Santa Barbara (in shorts it was so warm!) we found ourselves in front of the Salvation Army Hospitality House where we met Mick who was preparing for our first job - trimming the front hedge. It was a lovely looking hedge, however it was being used as a bed for some members of the community and so something needed to be done to deter this behaviour. We don't know if you could say we did a pretty job but we did meet the objective of the task! After that we prepared 200 packed lunches ready for the next day. It was interesting learning about his facility as when you typically think of Santa Barbara you can't imagine this affluent town needing Salvation Army services. Unfortunately, this a misconception many make. Not only is Santa Barbara a perfect place for Homeless people to make their 'home' because of the warmer climate but just because you're 'well off' doesn't mean you're immune to difficult times or struggling with addiction of some form. The Hopsitality House is a transitional unit for individuals who have completed a rehabilitation/detox program and need assistance 'transitioning' back into their community successfully. It's all about preparing them in a holistic way so they have coping strategies to face difficult times, in the hope they don't revert back to harmful behaviours and also have the opportunity to lead a successful and fulfilling life. Thank you to Jack Clithroe and his dedicated team of staff and volunteers for helping us volunteer on a Saturday!
2 Comments
Helen
11/25/2009 05:30:37 am
This perspective on the neeeds of people and the work of the SA I find the most fascinating yet.You can come trim our overgrown bushes anytime - think you will only find a skulking cat - although who knows!
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Jaime
11/27/2009 11:16:56 am
Hey Guys! I hope that you had a good thanksgiving! We delivered 6,000 meals to homebound folks (including the Meals that Heal receipients). Then served a Thanksgiving meal with The Cheesecake Factory at the ARC. The Majors all say "hi" and were thinking about you on Thanksgiving!
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Volunteer work with the Salvation Army
Part of what we wish to accomplish over the next year is not only the cycling, but also giving back to the communities which we will pass through. Archives
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