Dear friends
Call it what you like; it’s THAT time of the year: Rosh Hashanah, pumpkin spice latte time, fall fairs, finding the most colourful treescape, checking in with the staff of Erskine Presbyterian, opening of the OOTC office. You must delight in your own time-of-year traditions. One of my faves is going out to a restaurant for dinner the night before the eve of Rosh Hashanah. It’s not a Jewish commandment but it may as well be!! We’ve been cooking like our lives depended on it. The table is set with apples and honey, shofar, wine and candles. Someone else can cook! Let’s go out.
Where to go? Everyone agrees to meet at a restaurant downtown on Main St. E., a little past King & James. We are aware of the exceedingly high population of homeless people, mentally challenged people and people with addictions in the area. This is not a hidden reality in Hamilton any longer. Still, it is shocking. How does one walk past a person lying on the sidewalk with an outstretched hand? Is their humanity less than ours?
In a recent drash presented by Rabbi Aiden Pink of Park Avenue Synagogue, he acknowledged that “Justice, Justice, You Shall Pursue” was God's specific instructions for judges. We now understand it to mean that we are all responsible for creating a just society rather than being avoidant or turning a blind eye. Rashi, the 11th Century French commentator explained that you must not squeeze your eyes shut and pretend that you didn't see what was clear in front of you. One must not remain indifferent. One must be a person of action. Expend effort and care over lost souls.
At OOTC, we meet our guests face to face. As they pick up their bags of delicious and nutritious foods, they are engaged, receive a smile and a chat if they would like it. A lot goes into those moments when we consider our volunteers, the shopping, fundraising, cooking and cleaning. Would you please let me know as soon as possible if you will be a returning volunteer and confirm the time or shift that works best for you. If you know others who would like to join, there is a friendly orientation on Thursday, Oct. 16 at 7:15 pm at Central Presbyterian Church. I will share our November start date with you in the next week. Oh, the anticipation!!!
Would you like to get a head start on our season? There are about 100 butternut squash in my garage that require peeling, cubing and freezing for future use. Come and get a dozen or so or I will deliver asap. We are so grateful to Dundas Rotary and anonymous farmer for this yearly donation.
Last year, our guests requested hats, gloves, boots, new underwear, and new socks. Toiletries are appreciated too. Your donations of warm coats are most welcome, but not all at one time. Finally and fiscally, a meal feeding 250 guests last year averaged $908. Please spread the word that monetary donations to the OOTC Fund in memory or in honour of someone or ‘just because’ can easily and efficiently be made by calling Beth Jacob Synagogue, (905)522-1351.
Two years ago, at our volunteer orientation, the Executive Director of The Hub, Jen Bonner, spoke about interacting with unhoused people. She stressed the importance of consistency in people’s environment (think OOTC); the use of positive language in greetings and conversations “Be safe” rather than “Have a Good Night.” (Think OOTC); be resourceful by asking “What can we get you today?” rather than “How was your day.” (Think OOTC). Punitive language is detrimental to moving forward in a relationship “What if we do this instead?” rather than “You can’t do that.” (Think OOTC)
I am so grateful for many, many things in my life. Sharing with you the mitzvah known as Out of the Cold is priceless. As we begin our self-imposed Yom Kippur fast tonight, we will think about those who fast for lack of food. May you be sealed in the Book of Life. G’mar hatimah tova.
Cindy
