My husband and I recently spent time volunteering at Clayton Area Ministries, an organization that provides food to area residents who are in need of a "hand up." In the short time we were there, we witnessed the holiday spirit in action. As I walked toward the building, I noticed an SUV that was full of food brought in by a caring family. As I stepped inside the back door, I saw a young mother and her son bagging doughnuts that had been donated by a local business. When I made my way to the front room, I ran into an ECU student who was home for the holidays and wanted to help out. Soon after, another concerned citizen walked in and told me she wanted to give CAM a $100 check.
This story has another side - the many humble, grateful people who walked away with food, hugs, and holiday cheer. There was one couple that made a lasting impression on everyone that day. They came in with their two beautiful children and explained that not long ago they had been patrons of CAM. They went on to say that they had "gotten on their feet" and wanted to give back to the organization that had helped them when they needed it. They offered a check for $500 and a collection of toys. Needless to say, there were many tears of joy shed that day.
Thank you to CAM for brightening the holidays for those in need and for this volunteer.
