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Reminder Assistant Editor WEST SPRINGFIELD Since the year 2000 every state in the nation has observed the third Monday of January as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day. For the man who preached tolerance, peace and advocated unremittingly for civil rights, this national holiday was aimed to celebrate his life and dedication to change and charitable giving. While other students across the nation were enjoying another day of rest on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, members of the Youth Group at the First Congregational Church followed King's example by donating their day off to helping the Parish Cupboard. Diana Forfa, Christian education director at the First Congregational Church, said she brought the middle and high school students to the Parish Cupboard on Jan. 21 to remind them of why the nation celebrates King's legacy. "I really want them to see what happens here," she said. "I know it makes such an impact when they see people in need.it reinforces how lucky they are." Eight members of the youth group aided Candy Boucher, executive director of the Parish Cupboard, with various tasks in the food pantry and kitchen. The organization serves lunch to approximately 35 people per day and distributes groceries from the food pantry to about 150 households every month. Boucher said allowing for youth to volunteer their time at the Parish Cupboard allows them to reassess their value systems and break stereotypes. She explained that many youth volunteers are former or current clients of the organization. Ashleigh Narreau, a seventh grade student at West Springfield Middle School, said it is important for her to donate her time because she has come to realize the importance of such a facility firsthand. Narreau explained that she and her father are monthly clients of the Parish Cupboard's food pantry. Boucher noted that those who qualify by their residence and economic status are given two or three bags of groceries monthly including cereal, boxed meals, canned goods, baby formula, etc. She emphasized that this food pantry is an emergency food source for those who need immediate help and not for those who have become dependent on the organization. Boucher explained that the Parish Cupboard is only a part of the solution for those in need. She said she teaches people to use their resources wisely in order to regain their financial wellbeing. Boucher said not only does she try to educate those in need but also the youth who volunteer. She explained that she wanted those volunteering on Martin Luther King Jr. Day to learn several lessons: an understanding of the needs of others, not just their own; how to use their "gifts" and talents to help others; and where they can inform others to go if they need assistance. She told the students that the most important lesson to learn is to give only what one has to give. Following the holiday giving season, Boucher said donations have waned and the food pantry is in great need of boxed meals and cereal. For more information about the Parish Cupboard call 734-7969 or to make a monetary or food donation mail or drop them off at 1023 Main St., West Springfield, MA 01089. | ||||||
