Who’s Applauding Whom?

Donations are important to the effort to feed the hungry. But words of appreciation have equal impact.

The staff and volunteers at the soup kitchen think they should be thanking donors.

More often than not, it’s the other way around, notes Director Ed Morgan.

“I can’t tell you how often someone makes a donation, and they THANK ME.”

For example:

• “We are always awed by all of the volunteers, the behind-the-scene work that goes into what you provide,” Anita and Peter Parisi wrote in a note accompanying their recent donation.
• “Please allow us to thank you for the work that you and your organization does to feed those in need in our area,” Pat Costello wrote on behalf of the Irish Cultural Center board. A check was enclosed representing donations from their social media outreach.
• A note from Mike and Kelly Parsons, pledging a monthly donation, began: “Yesterday as I was driving home, I saw a gentleman leaving Mother Marianne’s with a meal. Thank you for providing so many who are in need.”

Perhaps Anita and Peter put it best: “It’s easy to write a check and think we did some good, but are humbled by the thought of people who really care and do the work. We hope that all of you know that those of us sitting at home want to applaud all of you.”

And then we say a simple prayer of gratitude: Deo gratias.