Erin's Events ~ Day 5

Day 5

Thursday was one of the best days I experienced in Washington D.C. After Angelique and I returned from the Luther Place night shelter we quickly got ready and headed to Thrive DC. Thrive DC is a non-profit organization that provides services to less fortunate individuals. Bethany and I were in the kitchen washing dishes, cutting onions and boilings pounds and pounds of noodles for spaghetti that was going to be served that evening. This was also a great opportunity to serve these individuals breakfast and witness how important these organizations are.

Although Thrive DC was great, my favorite place was Christ House. Christ House is a health care recovery facility for homeless persons. It is a 34 bed facility where homeless men and women may stay as long as their illness requires. It has been running successfully since December 24, 1985 when the first patient came through the doors.

We were assigned to teach these patients about eating a healthy diet and the importance of exercise. As we began to discuss these topics the patients were very enthusiastic and eager to engage in the conversation. They discussed a few things about their diet and exercise but they always ended by telling THEIR STORY. Although we may not have covered all of the topics we wanted to discuss, you could sense that just by listening to each of their unique stories that this was a very therapeutic and effective dialogue. It was very intriguing to understand how each person became who they are today.

Everyone of these patients were so grateful. They took us in with open arms and made us feel comfortable in their environment. They also praised Christ House numerous times throughout the conversation. They discussed how the staff that cares for them are just wonderful. They also enlightened us on all of the exciting opportunities that Christ House has given them such as going to a baseball game or to a movie. These activities help to build their self-esteem. Although they may be homeless, each one of these patients were still treated with respect. It was so nice to see all of the great things that the Christ House does for their patients.

A Christ House Patient states, "This is the best care I could get this side of heaven."