Al's Outreach Outtakes

A couple of weeks ago I was walking back to the Food Closet after an exhilarating meeting at the Parish Office (is there such a thing?). As I came around the corner I saw a mom and her young daughter unloading a cart full of items she had just gotten from us. As is always the case, there was over 75 pounds worth of meat, canned goods and personal care items. I stopped to talk with them and asked if they had gotten what they needed. “More than we could have imagined” came the reply from mom.
 
Since they were placing their items onto the parking lot, and since I had never seen them before, I asked the obvious question, “Do you have a car?” “No, we can’t afford one.” That’s when I learned they had ridden Tri-Met to get to us and that they live near Washington Square. I also learned that she had some physical challenges. “How do you plan to get all of this home?” I asked. “Now that I have all of this, I will fill my back packs and bags and carry it. I had no idea this kind of help was available”, mom said. “If I would have known we would not have gone without food for so long. I cannot tell you how grateful I am.” Knowing carrying that much food for that distance was not a workable solution, we arranged a ride so that mom, daughter and food items could all make it home safely. As they were loading the car mom kept saying how she could not believe people cared this much about total strangers and to be certain to thank you all. The little daughter came over and gave me a big hug and said “Thank you”. Please keep this family in your prayers.
 
A couple of weeks ago I, and several other HT parishioners, had the opportunity to participate in mock interviews with students at Beaverton High School. While I have interviewed and hired many people over the years, I must admit I was not quite sure what to expect. What a pleasure! The students I talked with were bright, engaging and had a good idea of where their life was headed. If they are any indication of the next generation, we are in good shape! One student is already studying medicine; another environmental science; a third wants to be a music teacher and so on. In talking with my fellow parishioner interviewers, they were just as excited afterwards as I was. Helping all students, regardless of race, religious beliefs, socio-economic status, etc. achieve their maximum potential is in everyone's best interest. Whether we do that through the back pack program, mentorship, tutoring or some other effort, know that your support matters. Please pray that all students receive the support they need to achieve their fullest potential.