Today was day 4 of our work with Project Open Hand. Chakara, Alejandra, and Stacy went on a delivery route while the rest of the group stayed in the kitchen. Once again we were on point in terms of speed. We finished every task early and we were given numerous breaks. It is really awesome to see how much help we are to the staff at Project Open Hands. Even though it is a disappointment for me that we aren't interacting as much with the actual clients I am really happy that we are able to give the regular staff a break. I think they really appreciate it. Some of the workers who won't be there for the next couple of days expressed their gratitude today as we left. I think USF definitely is in the positive side of the books for Project Open Hand.
I this project is amazing and even though we didn't really get to experience the fruits of our labor in the kitchen, I think by exposing ourselves to the delivery routes and being able to see the people we are delivering food to, we are able to realize the impact of what we are doing. It's amazing to see the smiles on people's faces as they open the door. It's also amazing to see people waiting. When we were late for some deliveries, some of the clients were almost upset because they were expecting food. These meals are obviously the only source of healthy diet and food that these clients get. It makes me feel bad that we were late, although it wasn't really our fault because the driver who was supposed to deliver those meals canceled last minute.
I also really enjoy seeing the smiles on the faces of the workers when we come in to work. While I know we aren't having as permanent impact as possible, it is still a lot of help for the workers and gives them the ability to take breaks and focus on other aspects of the job. Even Alejandra is helping out with the office work, which definitely gives a break to the office staff.
After work we went to Atlantic Station and walked around the shopping areas. We stopped at H&M FOR FOREVER but some girls got some really cute outfits. I also got to see my friend Pooja! It was really good seeing one of my friends from Atlanta. After spending so much of my life there, it seems weird coming back and not seeing my friends. It sucks that all my friends are so busy but I guess there isn't much I can do but tell everyone I'm here and hope that people come visit me or make plans to see me.
After Atlantic Station, we went to Gladys Knight's Chicken & Waffle restaurant. I was completely disgusted initially because I thought the chicken was wrapped by the waffles. But, to my surprise and delight they were merely presented on the same plate. I tried the macaroni and cheese (thanks for Stacy) and the blueberry waffles (thanks to Wilnie) and they were both DELICIOUS! I know, I know, as a public health professional I should not be eating these things, but when in Rome, right? At least I didn't eat the chicken!!!
We did our reflections at the restaurant which was good. We aired out our dirty laundry. I think it helped to get things out in the open. I feel closer to these girls, even though we have just known each other for a week. I hope we stay friends after this trip. I know last year there were attempts to keep in touch with the ASB group, but after some time it seemed impossible. I hope that doesn't happen with this group.
Another great day of service in Atlanta! I look forward to the next two days. We're going to come out on top!
No comments:
Post a Comment