On a blustery Saturday, AIGA DC volunteers joined Bread for the City to put together hundreds of Thanksgiving meal packages to share with families in need. Bread for City’s Holiday Helpings program provides 10,000 low-income D.C. residents with a healthful Thanksgiving meal, complete with turkeys and trimmings.

When we first arrived at Southeast Center, a volunteer coordinator greeted us warmly and went over the agenda in a somewhat chilly office space. Everyone was shivering a little, but as we sat to work, we soon discarded our scarves and sweaters.

photo by Phim Her

Over a dozen AIGA DC friends, alongside other volunteer groups, rolled up their sleeves and assembled packages of canned fruit and vegetables — turkeys will be added closer to Thanksgiving — hauled heavy boxes two flights of stairs and broke down packaging for recycling.

Though we were there only for two hours, the result was visible right away — a clear reminder of how much people can accomplish together in a short time.

About Bread for the City
The organization’s mission is to provide comprehensive services — including food, clothing, medical care, legal services and social services — to low-income Washington, D.C., residents in an atmosphere of dignity and respect. Started in 1974, Bread for the City runs two Centers in the District of Columbia and provides direct services to low-income residents absolutely free.

Want to Lend a Hand?
Visit Bread for the City’s website to see many ways to contribute to the Holiday Helpings program and other initiatives throughout the year.

(photos by Marcus Relacion and Phim Her)