This past weekend I had an incredible opportunity to drive down to Philly in a van with nine other college students. This may not sound appealing to you, but these two long days created lasting memories and relationships for me. The St. Francis Inn is a community in Philadelphia that bonds with the homeless and poor in this area. Over 350 meals are served each day to those in need.
Our group from St. A's was warmly greeted by each and every single person from cooks and servers, to those receiving the meal. The Inn has a seamless routine. "Its not the most efficient," said Father Michael who runs the Inn. As all of the volunteers gathered for training, Father Michael explained how each table of four is served restaurant style with a main course, sandwich, side, and dessert. Although this process takes longer than the typical cafeteria style line, it is much more personal and intimate. I was able to understand this first hand as serving those who came to the door with a smile on the peephole.
I was humbled by the appreciation we received by our guests. The poor were truly thankful for not only the meal, but also the time we took to sit and chat with them while they were eating. Each and every one of us from St. A's was interested and concerned for those we were serving.
As I told the maitre d' that I had an opening of three seats, a man and his two elementary aged sons walked in, escaping the freezing winds. I introduced myself and asked the boys if they would prefer chocolate milk opposed to the hot tea that was offered at every table. They gratefully accepted and gave a toothy smile when I set their plates on the table. As I waited for more people to serve, I observed this family. The father took a few bites of his beans and casserole and then even distributed a hot dog to each of his boys along with the remained of his beans and casserole. His sons pleaded with him saying, "No, Dad. Please, I'm full."
"C'mon, eat up," the father said encouraging them.
Watching this interaction filled me with mixed emotions. I felt the love that this father had for his sons. He was so selfless. Simultaneously, I was overwhelmed by sadness. I thought that the father may be giving his sons the food because he was unsure of when their next meal would be. Before leaving, the father asked for a bag and packaged the sandwiches, fruit, and desserts that remained, some even donated by others eating at surrounding tables.
After the last few people trickled out, we cleaned the kitchen and dining room, preparing to repeat this same process the following day. Leaving with full hearts, my fellow Anselmians and I reflected on our time at the St. Francis Inn eager to return at some point in the future. 
Doing any form of community service from donating clothes to volunteering for a week building houses, EVERYTHING helps. All people, not only high school and college students, are capable of lending a hand.
If you are interested in volunteering, donating, or learning more about the St. Francis Inn please visit http://stfrancisinn.org
