Giving Hope Foundation of New Orleans: Thanksgiving Addition

Total Hours: October + November= 22 

During the month of November, especially during Covid times, it is more important than ever to give back to the community. Many families are still throughly affected daily from this pandemic. I decided to volunteer at Giving Hope Nola, Giving Hope is a New Orleans, Louisiana nonprofit dedicated to the vision: “Where Love Changes Everything.” 

Volunteering at the Giving Hope NOLA Foundation started with meeting at the Warehouse around 10am, and staying until 4pm. It was a very safe environment, as we were given masks and gloves to wear throughout the day. Boxes of various dry and cold food items, as well as fresh foods and produce were loaded off an 18-wheeler. Then, we put one of each item in boxes. Each family in need was to pick up a box filled with over 12 items. These items ranged from salads, to juices, bread, milk, eggs, rice, pre-made quality dinners. cakes, meat, fruit, snacks, and so much more. We stocked the boxes full, since it was the day before Thanksgiving. I enjoyed unloading heavy boxes out of the vans, as it was a good workout to put my strength to use. It started to rain but everyone’s spirits were still alive—both inside and outside the warehouse. This food to-boxes-process was like an assembly line that went on for about 3 hours until the families began to arrive. All of the volunteers were extremely kind and swift, as we all fed off of each other’s energy. The fast pace environment of filling each cardboard box, knowing it was going to be in the hands of a family was a rewarding feeling. Once the families arrived, roses that were donated were placed in front of the social-distanced line. We passed these out and wished everyone a happy Thanksgiving. Seeing the look on everyone’s faces was by far the best part. They were so grateful and surprised to be given a flower. Everyone grabbed a flower, and rolled their cart to the next stop for more items. This was done until around 2. This experience is one that I will certainly be repeating. Placing items in boxes seems so small, but it puts in perspective what we buy at the grocery store and take for granted. I enjoyed helping for the day and making new friends. Seeing families smile is a memory I will never forget, and intend to continue doing. This foundation is a lovely one that very much so helps people in need.