By Betty Hertz
“Go to love and serve your neighbor.”
How often have we heard these words at the close of St. John church services? They echoed in my head Monday as I drove out to Centennial Campground. I volunteered to help the Salvation Army but wasn’t sure what I would encounter. I knew about the various incidents there and wasn’t sure how safe I would be.
Pastor Emily, three St. John members and I received a heartwarming welcome as we walked into the office! The Salvation Army members quickly introduced themselves, gave us a brief orientation about the residents, and provided guidance on safety concerns. They reminded us that their services are often called on during disasters and this encampment qualified. Then they shared their excitement that an organization had just volunteered to launder sleeping bags and towels regularly.
While I stayed in the office to help register new residents, the other four headed out to the campground to do the morning census. They traveled in pairs and had walkie-talkies in case they needed help.
What did we find? Neighbors seeking help ranging from hygiene kits, clothing, phone access and bus passes to tents and housing applications. We saw people wanting basic needs that most of us take for granted. I realized my whimpering about all this rain paled compared to their daily challenges.
Are you feeling the call to help our neighbors?
More volunteers are needed at the campground, especially on Mondays and Fridays.
Go to www.westernusa.salvationarmy.org/alaska
Then click on Volunteer in this community. Next, click on Volunteer Efforts at Centennial Campground. There are opportunities to help at the campground or at offsite locations.
If you don’t feel comfortable helping in person, donations of sleeping bags (new or clean used ones) are urgently needed and St. John is collecting sleeping pads.
Heavenly Caregiver,
Open our hearts so that we reach out to our brothers and sisters in need. Help us give to others as you have given to us.
In your beloved Son’s name, Amen.
Betty Hertz is a longtime member of St John UMC, a Stephen Minister, Certified Lay Speaker and a member of SPRC. When not doing volunteer work, she is playing with her three goofy dogs.