Spirit of Giving

Four years ago Amy Bleasdale started volunteering at the New London Meal Center with her church.

The Montville High school junior admitted recently that she was anxious when she walked through the doors of the Montauk Avenue soup kitchen, her mind filled with stereotypes of the homeless and those in need.

But during the first New London County Food forum earlier this month, sponsored by the Connecticut Trial Lawyers of New London County, Bleasdale admitted her fears were unfounded.

"The people who receive food at the New London Meal Center are friendly and thankful,'' she said in a speech during the forum. "People too easily stereotype the needy as lazy and irresponsible, but to me the people I have met at the meal center defy those stereotypes. They are thankful for the food we bring to them."

In an effort to raise awareness about volunteering opportunities for young people, the lawyers' association has reached out to area high schools.

On Feb. 22, students from Waterford, New London, Norwich Free Acadamy, Stonington, The Williams School, and Connecticut College attended the first food forum at the Meal Center.

Attorney Daniel J. Horgan, who helped organize the forum, said it will be an annual event.

"Connecticut Trial Lawyers of New London County wanted to increase awareness and enthusiasm among area High school students to volunteer,'' he said.

A brochure put together by the trial lawyers gives information on volunteer opportunities in New London, Norwich, Groton, and East Lyme. In addition to the soup kitchen, other
organizations looking for help include the Alliance for Living, Gemma Moran United Way Labor Food Center, Groton Area Meal Services, and the New London Breakfast at the First Congregational Church.

"Volunteering makes other people smile,'' is a quote on the brochure, which is available by calling 860-443-5297.

For Bleasdale, who is a parishioner at St. John's Episcopal church in Niantic, her experiences at the soup kitchen have enriched her life.

"Last year I met a Polish man who was imprisoned at Auschwitz during World War II,'' she wrote. "I will never forget what he told me: 'Keep smiling.'

"To have survived the Holocaust, all the horrors of World War II, and now poverty in New London, and still keep an optimistic attitude is utterly inspiring,'' she said.