A Volunteer’s Experience at The Community Table

---

Hi! My name is Susie Kresge and I am a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Douglassville.  I got involved with Hopewell Love and the Community Table after hearing Russ McClellan speak with one of our church committees.  I was very moved by the mission of Hopewell Love and the idea that we find Jesus through interactions with others in our community. 

I have been volunteering at the community table and food pantry for over three years. On my first day, I was immediately given a warm welcome and put right to work on helping set up tables, sorting food items and assisting with a variety of other tasks. 

I have found it to be a joyful place and I very much enjoy the conversations with the other volunteers, many of whom are also shoppers at the food pantry. I marvel at the true sense of community that has been established through the sharing of a meal.  People saving seats for friends and family - a true social gathering where everyone is treated with respect and dignity. Looking around the dinner tables, I am always struck by the diversity – there are people from different ethnic backgrounds and of all ages, from infants to 80 year old's - all gathered to share a delicious meal together. 

While the pandemic may have changed the food pantry to a drive-through distribution, the connection to our neighbors has remained strong! I am very grateful to be a part of Hopewell Love and I look forward to continuing to serve in this uplifting mission!