On Sunday, August 27, 2017, more than forty Jews, Christians and Muslims united at the Los Altos Church of Latter Days Saints to prepare a hot meal for the homeless in Palo Alto. Orientation was led by Br. Scott Parker of the LDS Church, Sr. Dorothy Dorsay of Congregation Beth David, and Br. Mehmet Sen of BayCC Turkish Muslim community. Volunteers enjoyed getting acquainted in small buddy groups before working together to prepare a tasty lasagna dinner for residents of LifeMoves Housing First project for the homeless. Sr. Iris Bendahan recited a Hebrew blessing over the bread before all partook. Br. Oktay Erbil recited a dua (prayer) of thanksgiving for bringing all together for camaraderie in compassion. As guests arrived for dinner at the LifeMoves Opportunity Center in Palo Alto, they were pleasantly surprised to take a seat instead of lining up so volunteers could wait on them restaurant-style! Volunteers brought such an abundance of lasagna, french bread (generously donated by Trader Joe’s), fresh fruit salad and green salad, that they stepped outside the Opportunity Center to serve additional homeless guests. Nearly all guests enjoyed seconds, then departed both satisfied and smiling.
Many thanks to Pamela Law of LifeMoves who oriented volunteers to the Opportunity Center facility, to event leaders who planned and prepared for countless details, and to AAi donors who made it all possible. Most of all, thanks be to God الحَمْد لله ברוך השם for providing us the strength and resources for this united effort to serve our neighbors in need.
