Our “More Than A Meal” campaign is a season of events, appeals, and fundraisers all working toward the same goal – raising awareness and funds to end chronic homelessness in Washington, D.C. Below is an excerpt from Andrea Scallon, former Director of Measurement, Evaluation, and Learning at Miriam’s Kitchen, about why she’s fundraising this year.
October has always been my month! And the weather in DC has just changed to feel like fall. It’s not just the weather but also the pumpkins, college football, colors out my windows, harvest season, cozying up with blankets, dreaming of knitting a sweater, etc.
For the last eight years, it has also been a transition time at my job at Miriam’s Kitchen. It is a busy time as our fiscal year starts and we work hard to close out the previous year. It is also the organization’s birthday in early October. We try to celebrate and recognize the years of work that predate each of us.
This year it is super extra-special because last week, we re-opened our dining room to guests!! After 407 days of continuing our impactful work from the back courtyard of our founders (Western Presbyterian Church), we’re back to offering pick-up meals for our guests and the opportunity to receive services indoors! Under tents on sunny days, in the pouring rain, in the cold, in the heat – we served two hot meals every weekday and met our guests’ needs in that back courtyard. Our guests are at the center of everything we do – it’s our #1 Organizational Value and the work we have done during the pandemic shows that more than ever!
We are not 100% back to normal at all. But even the few minutes of guests coming indoors to get a meal in to-go boxes and talking quickly to a case manager adds so much dignity for our neighbors.
For more information on the “More Than A Meal” campaign and how you can support or become a fundraiser, visit our fundraising page!
