I asked Sarah today – the big day of the Thanksgiving Dinner giveaway to every member of the Food Pantry – if it would be okay to focus my camera on the invisible heroes who make the pantry work and devote long hours to helping their neighbors in need. These are the heroes of America, as I know and imagine the country.

Inside, the volunteers stuffed bags all day. The second shift arrived this evening to pass out the frozen turkeys and stuffing to cars that drove by a tent in front of the pantry.

When I asked Sarah about the idea, she responded with enthusiasm, “Sure, that sounds like a great idea.” Their selflessness was evident when I asked for permission to take their photos. They didn’t seek praise, money, or recognition; they were happy to do it for the cause, and their genuine smiles were a testament to their altruism. Nobody can fake smiles like that.

They are a remarkable group of people, warm and caring. It is easy to get them to smile; they have big hearts and generous spirits. They don’t need to be told what it’s like not to have enough food; they all seem to understand and empathize with the needs of their community.

The pantry has many good things to me, but the one that stands out is the volunteers who are dedicated to the pantry. They devote their time, energy, and hearts to the people who have nowhere else to go, just as Jesus urged. Their dedication is truly inspiring.

Portraits are my favorite kind of photography. I only take portraits of people I like, love, or respect, and they all come out well. Pictures don’t lie.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The pantry fiercely protects its members’ privacy. At 5 p.m., people can pull up in front of the tent, and volunteers will hand them their frozen turkeys and all the stuffings and food that go with a full turkey dinner.  They will not need to get out of their dinner.

I didn’t use names because I needed to figure out how to keep track of them and get it right. I guessed they prefer not to be identified by name – I don’t ask for that –  but were happy to smile for me. They get paid nothing and show up whenever there is a need, which is just about every day. They don’t need or seek praise or any compensation.

My pal Kyle, I’m getting him an Elf suit for Christmas.

They were stuffing bags in the chapel all afternoon.

The smiles are so genuine and natural.

People of warmth and generosity,

The faces say so much,

From the shelves. It’s hard work. They do it thoughtfully and colorfully.

 

In the waiting room, it takes a small army to put everything together correctly. Nobody will get a package that is missing a thing.