Our Blessings Count

As the holidays are approaching, I find myself thinking more about individuals and families without a place they call home.

I realize how blessed we really are to have our family and friends to share Thanksgiving dinner and celebrate the holidays with.

Recently I visited a family member in Portland Oregon. For two days it rained nonstop. I passed several tents and saw displaced people on the street. In Oregon, like California, they have built tiny house communities for some to seek shelter. As well, I heard about something that I have never heard of before. It’s called Portland Free Fridge. The community is taking steps to make access to fresh food easier for people in need across the city.

Free Fridge is volunteer driven. The electricity and space are donated. Anyone can drop off food. In one article I read, some say it’s similar to the idea of the little free libraries.

The free fridge idea is so popular and they are popping up all over Portland, Beaverton and other cities across the state. It’s just one creative solution to help with hunger affecting many in the community. It will also help shine a spotlight on the issue of food insecurity. The residents are excited to help. They are paying just a bit more for their electricity.

I’m not sure that the Free Fridge idea will ever be something California would consider, but we have the ability to help. There are many ways to donate food or even prepare and drop off dinners to shelters in our community. You can also donate gift cards, and other items.

Please download our free phone app on Google Play or The App Store, register, search events and see the many ways you can make a difference.

Volunteer Network OC wishes you and yours a wonderful and blessed Thanksgiving.