Yesterday as I was running errands I found myself on Martin Luther King Jr. Way in Seattle. As I stopped at a  stoplight I noticed an obviously homeless man waking down the sidewalk, talking to each car. I’m not in the habit of giving money to those that stand on street corners, sign in hand. I’ve heard too many stories of scams, and frankly, I don’t know what the money I give them would be spent on.

So as he approached my car, I knew that I wasn’t going to give him any money, but what I did have was half a sandwich (leftover from my own hastily eaten lunch in the car). I rolled down my window and asked he he would like to have it. His answer, “yes, ma’am, that would be great” followed by “God bless you”. The look of gratitude for half a sandwich (that frankly I may have just thrown away when I got home) astounded me. This man was truly hungry and truly grateful for the handout. And while he was grateful, I felt embarrassed that all I had given to him was half a sandwich. Even when times are hard, I have a home, a husband that loves me plenty to eat.

There are so many people in this city that don’t have enough to eat. This man obviously lives on the street (and luckily he had a pretty good coat) and maybe he has never been to Northwest Harvest. But lots of people that do visit Northwest Harvest look just like you and me. They live in houses or apartments and have families. Families that are hungry. For some reason, hard times have made it impossible for them to get enough food.

I’m so excited to be able to participate in the Will Bake for Food event tomorrow. Over 60 local food bloggers have signed up to make delicious baked goods. You bring non-perishable food (see below for a list of the most needed items) you get to trade for home-bakes goodies. And let me tell you. I have been seeing and hearing previews of what the other bloggers are making and trust me, you do not want to miss it. I’ll be bringing two of my specialties, Chocolate-caramel covered graham crackers and Igloos.

If you can’t make it, Northwest Harvest can always use monetary donations. But I for one have my food and diaper donation ready to go. There is no way I am missing out on getting some treats for myself.

xxx

Saturday, November 20th, 2010
10am-2pm (or until we run out!)

University Congregational Church
Ostrander Hall
4515 16th Ave. NE
Seattle, WA 98105

Need more details? Go here: www.willbakeforfood.com

xxx

What types of food does Northwest Harvest need?
Northwest Harvest can use any nonperishable food or monetary donations. If you prefer to donate food, select shelf-stable food with the lowest saturated fats and refined carbohydrates (sugar, white flour). We buy white rice and beans in bulk, so we encourage you to donate other items. Here are some suggestions:

General food items:
Oatmeal
Whole grain pastas
Brown rice
Tomato products
Canned vegetables
Canned fruit, especially with low sugar (but not artificial sweeteners)
Canned fish or meat
Shelf-stable milk
Beef stew, chili and similar meals with low sugar and saturated fats

Infant and baby foods:
Baby formula
Canned milk
Infant cereal
Jars of baby food
Powdered or canned milk
We also accept baby diapers