One of Many

On March 18th, 2017 we were finally going to distribute our first unit of care packages to the public. I have a feeling that Shelly and I shared feelings of excitement and anxiety. This being our first trial, we had no idea if people would accept them, if they would act violently, or if they would be offended. We hoped that our efforts would be well-received and that we could actually help someone in need.

Thankfully, we had the support of six fellow volunteers. Close friends and allies that were willing to dedicate their Saturday night to something so meaningful.

That day we all took the D train all the way to the 42 Bryant Park train station. We got off of the subway and made our way into the street. We walked all the way to Times Square, a place we knew many homeless people resided. It was cold, it was drizzling, and it was nighttime. Not nearly as many people were on the streets as we expected their to be (on a typical day). Those who were out were either huddled close together with loved ones or bundled up and crouching in the crevices of the city.

The first care package we delivered we actually had to leave by a man’s side since he was sleeping. Gradually we came into contact with more and more people huddled on the streets. That night, the weather was miserable. With a heavy heart, I can only imagine the pain each and everyone of them were experiencing. Again, the gratitude that was expressed by those who received the packages was tremendous and humbling. It made me wish I had more to give.   

We eventually made our way to Penn Station as one of our volunteers, Leslie, suggested. In Penn Station there was an overabundance of homeless. It was clear that this was also a product of the weather. It is an understatement to say that it was heartbreaking and tragic how large their numbers were. Unfortunately, we started to run out of care packages to give and we were forced to make the impossible decision of who deserved the last one.  

The experience of giving out the care packages was truly gratifying. It would not have been successful without the participation and support of our many volunteers. It became clear to all of us that we must make strides to increase our efforts. I sincerely hope that this night will be one of many.