Afternoon Outreach
By Kelliann Robinson
Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. — Philippians 2:4
Outreach is a significant part of what happens at Sanctuary. We spend a couple of hours a few times a week walking the streets of downtown Toronto, checking in on people and giving out small necessities such as socks, hats, mitts, and snacks. Here is a quick story of how one afternoon, an outreach journey had a powerful impact on me.
It was a sunny and warm day in late January as my outreach partner and I headed out for the afternoon. Usually we have a specific route to follow, but that day our instructions were to walk wherever we desired.
Within a few minutes, we ran into Jennifer (name has been changed to protect privacy) at the entrance to a Tim Horton’s, and she was very upset. Jennifer had recently been struggling when attending our drop-ins and my interactions with her had often ended poorly.
Gently, we asked if she needed help, and she quickly opened up to us about her struggles. Since it was a beautiful day, we bought Jennifer some food and sat down on a bench with her. We chatted as she enjoyed her food, feeding some of the crumbs to the pigeons, and feeling the sunshine on her face. After her meal, Jennifer dug through her backpack and presented us with gifts of delicious cookies. She wouldn’t take no for an answer.
At our next outreach destination, Jennifer and I sat on the steps of The 519 and chatted about the following week. My new friend timidly asked me to hold her hand and gently squeeze. My heart melted as I gently squeezed her hand. She had a look of joy on her face as she smiled with her eyes closed and the sunshine on her cheeks. I found it hard to leave Jennifer and continue on my outreach journey. We said our goodbyes and as I walked away, I found myself looking forward to spending more time with her at drop-ins.
My time with Jennifer was short, but it made me reconsider my side of our previously poor interactions. Had I been valuing her above myself? Or had I been thinking only of my comfort?
