Jen's Journal

Day 4

Passing by an advertisement in the underground metro I snapped a photograph of the going green efforts within Washington DC. The city, much like the rest of our nation, is making strides to rid our streets, lakes, and rivers of harmful plastic bags though encouraged use of reusable cloth bags. Prior to our departure, our group ended up shipping approximately 100 reusable bags to the N. Street Village Shelter for women to use since city stores have started charging for each plastic bag. Between additional costs and advertisements, going green efforts really appeared to be catching on.

The Capital Area Food Bank which we volunteered at on Wednesday afternoon also jumped reuse and recycling band wagon. As we sorted box after box of donated items, nothing went to waste. The items which were damaged but could still be opened were used for distribution. Items where food quality/safety were in question or cans which were too badly damaged to open were placed in a bin labeled “hog food.” Every intact brown paper bag that was used to bring in goods was saved and rather than breaking down cardboard boxes from retailers, they were put back together and reused.

As we sorted through what seemed like never ending bags and boxes of food piled higher than I could reach, I looked up at the walls of the building to find random quotes painted. The quotes filled my mind with thoughts of pride and honor, yet sorrow and disbelief. The shear amount of donated items was overwhelming and made me reflect on Americans and their wonderful ability to give. From donated items to volunteered time, people really do want to help and make a difference. In contrast, how is it that a nation which claims to be the “land of the free” and prides its self in supposed equality has the need for a food bank which contests the size of the largest warehouse in Eau Claire? Given all of DC’s efforts, many people still remain hungry on a daily basis…something just does not seem to add up if you ask me. I’m sure other areas of our country and the world face similar problems but it was defiantly something to ponder as I sorted each can of soup or bottle of water.

This Winston Churchill quote is one of many I enjoyed while working at the food bank. I think it captures American’s generosity and pride to help when needed.