How Are the Poor In Your Area?
by the Rev. Canon Tina Campbell
We must talk about poverty because people insulated by their own comfort lose sight of it.
Dorothy Day
How are the poor in your area? This is the question that our Bishop has asked deacons to address in the Aurora. Well, in Sacramento the poor are homeless, hungry, inspiring and teaching by example. I would like to share a story with you.
The woman, a Safe Ground Sacramento team leader, walked through the kitchen among the bustling volunteers who were preparing food for Trinity Cathedral’s biweekly dinner that is provided in conjunction with the Safeground Homeless Advocacy Network. The woman watched as a volunteer cut chicken and then observed, as I dredged the pieces in seasoned bread crumbs. She watched the bits of chicken that were set aside as waste, and as that bowl grew more full she asked if she might use that chicken to make a snack. She then watched carefully as I dipped the chicken pieces and then asked if she could have the leftover crumbs. We all agreed to let her have these things. She watched closely until the moment the trays of chicken went into the ovens and then she got to work. Taking the bits of chicken, (parts that we middle class cooks deemed as “waste”) she dredged, seasoned and deep-fried them. Then she laid them out in serving bowls and invited the 100+ guests to enjoy these appetizers.
I was reminded again about the level of waste that most of us tolerate. I was struck by this woman’s tenacity, and her laser-like observation, as she awaited her opportunity to cook. I was struck by the enthusiasm with which her fellow diners welcomed her “chicken tenders.”
I think twice now about the food I toss away as I cook at home. I like to think I waste less after volunteering at these Safe Ground Sacramento dinners.
Posted on Fri, June 13, 2014
by Elsa Dooling
filed under