Basic Needs

Getting out of my own head...and helping out in the community brought me joy today.

Thanks to a tip from Anne, I did my second volunteer shift this morning at Maine Needs, an organization striving to build a community where everyone helps and no one goes without. They partner with the social services community in support of asylum seekers, students, the unhoused population, survivors of domestic violence, and those facing financial adversity.

My task this morning was to fill orders for basic clothing and household needs. I shopped from shelves and bins of donated goods for such things as snow pants and coats...boots and socks....and laundry detergent and toothpaste. It is both humbling...and joyful work....and I was happy to be there. Paul and I donated some of our gently used items and have made a financial contribution that will help fill in a few gaps of desperately needed items this holiday and winter season. Ironically enough...our charitable fund is actually called "The Shupe Joyful Giving Fund."

I just learned today that the Maine Needs logo features the lady slipper. 

Lady slippers are rare and have to go through the cold, harsh season in order for the seeds to germinate and finally bloom. Maine Needs believes that sometimes the most difficult season can lead us to something more beautiful. And hopefully that can lead to joy.

 Spreading joy is a community effort.