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In order to
volunteer on a regular basis in any area of the Shelter an
orientation is required. It lasts 2 hours and is really
interesting. As many as twenty people can participate. They run
a “tight ship” there, and the level of respect that flows from
the clients to the volunteers and staff is very impressive.
Information about the overall operation, how the food is
supplied and who cooks it is explained. The baby and
toddler rooms, the showers, laundry, children’s sick room,
children’s reading room, storage areas, computer labs (3) the
kitchen and dining room are visited. The children’s and women’s
clothes closet are amazing, and each department has a procedure
and strict rules. They had a full service clinic with
professionals (Mercy Mobil) visiting 3 times a week to
administer care.
The women who
frequent the shelter are not all abused women. They come for
many reasons. Most are homeless due to many different
circumstances. They receive assistance for evening shelter (the
biggest challenge) job training and job search, medical, two
meals a day, laundry facilities (albeit it they only have 3
washers and 2 dryers for 200 women. They get in line and
usually only can wash their few clothes about every 6 weeks.
They can request a personal shower kit as needed, clothes, job
counseling, a child coordinator to assist with schools and
supplies and visits with a social worker.
All –in-all the
shelter re-enforces the merits of benevolence (brotherly love)
and philanthropy (giving financially). A loving and safe
environment has been created for the clients and the clients are
encouraged and empowered through the actions of the staff and
volunteers.
After the
orientation there seems to be a need to reevaluate the efforts
of the Atlanta Kiwi Club for the Shelter. The bags we assemble
are truly enjoyed but the contents could be less. What they do
need from us is new underwear, socks, treats (chips, cookies –
small packs) cosmetic bags, tote bags, hand sanitizer, and of
course personal items - but not so many as we have provided in
the past. They have access to bath and dental hygiene items.
Marta tokens are a must and we can give them $ to buy them at
cost. Most importantly, our hands-on efforts and our time is so
valuable. One opportunity
to have a true
experience with the women and children
is to work at the
front desk about 2-3 times a month .
There by the grace of GOD go I. |
