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Shanna J

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1 reviews

Review for In My Fathers Kitchen, Syracuse, NY, USA

Rating: 5 stars   Featured Review

During the last few years, In My Father's Kitchen has been meeting the physical and spiritual needs of many disadvantaged people in the Syracuse area and beyond. The message of hope begins with a sandwich and bottle of water and continues with the words, "You are not invisible. God sees you!" The members of IMFK strive to meet and assist homeless men and women of Central New York. Another area of outreach is to the growing refugee community in the Syracuse area. It doesn't stop there, there are many other people who have been changed for the better due to IMFK.

I am one of those people that have been positively impacted in my time with In My Father's Kitchen. I have known the founders for many years through church. In the last two years, I have been blessed to come alongside this ministry. I have worked at multiple outreach events where free clothing, toys, bikes and food were given to those that attended. Many that attended the events are living in Syracuse but are originally from countries far away. It has been very rewarding to meet new people from across the world. My favorite attendees are the children. Often times, there will be a donated bike raffle. So all of the nearby children come and sign up for a chance to win their very own bike while the older members of their families pick out clothing and shoes to bring home. Meanwhile, the children are so excited and hopeful. Many have never received a gift or prize as special as a brand new bike. They come and help each other fill out their raffle tickets for the drawing. Some speak English very well, some do not, yet, they assist each other and make it work. Once each child has been entered into the drawing, and the waiting is over, the drawing takes place. A name will be called and everyone cheers for the little boy or little girl that receives a brand new bicycle. It's beautiful to see their faces! They are shocked and so thrilled to have won. Finally, they get a picture taken with their newest prized possession and then they ride home. More than receiving a bike, these kids are receiving a special message that Jesus sees and loves them!

I am so glad to be a part of the volunteers that aide IMFK. I am happy to say that my 10 year old daughter is also a part of the volunteer team. I love teaching her to be a giver of not only money and things but also of her time. She loves it! I'm so thankful for the opportunity to serve the community together. We are blessed to be missionaries in our own city, thanks to the leadership of In My Father's Kitchen.

I recommend that more families get involved. Elderly, retirees, single moms, single dads, young couples, teens and children all have a place in giving to and serving others. Giving hope and help to others makes our own challenges seem not so big after all. And if you are unable to be there in person, definitely make a donation of money, clothing or other useful items. You will be blessed and so will many others.


Would you volunteer for this group again?

Definitely

For the time you spent, how much of an impact did you feel your work or activity had?

Life-changing

Did the organization use your time wisely?

Very Well

Would you recommend this group to a friend?

Definitely

When was your last experience with this nonprofit?

2013

Role:  Volunteer