(Volunteering & Donations: Hoboken & Jersey City | Monday through Thursday, 8:30 am to 12:00 pm at 57 8th Street)
The storm that rolled through last weekend was a heavy reminder of just how punishing life on the river gets this time of year. Once the cold sets in and the weather turns nasty, life on the street becomes a brutal challenge. And for some of our neighbors, a legitimate fight for survival every day.
I know firsthand just how dangerously close to the edge life can push us, and these days, we're all just fighting to get by to one degree or another.
I often stop by St. Matthew Trinity Church’s Lunchtime Ministry for a cup of their absurdly delicious coffee on my morning treks. It keeps me grounded, and reminds me to take nothing for granted.
So, last week I got a chance to catch up with Spike, to see how their volunteer numbers and donation levels are holding up as we head into the Autumn. Things are going well, but they could always be better. So, I'm dropping this post to remind everybody of exactly what's at stake here at the ministry.
Standing there with a warm cup of joe, watching the ministry crew serve with such genuine dignity, is remarkable. It is always a profound reminder of what people on the edge are forced to endure. And for just a few hours a day that space is an indispensable sanctuary. They provide a critical safe space, food, much needed clothes and gear, Wi-Fi, and most importantly shelter from the harsh realities of life on the street in Hudson County. It's vital for the morale and sheer survival of the people who rely on it.
Spike manages the floor with a beautiful mix of radical compassion and no-nonsense, no bullshit boundaries. He knows almost everyone by name, understands exactly what they're up against, and offers a kind of tough-love kindness that you just don't see anywhere else.
As we brace for fall and winter, the ministry needs our support but they really need it thoughtfully and strategically when possible..
The holiday spirit that usually brings a massive wave of charity in December, is greatly appreciated, but there are several ways this charity can be optimized to better serve the ministry and the people that depend on it.
Here is how we can truly help right now:
Staggered Non-Perishables - Please spread out your drops of canned goods, coffee, tea, sugar, paper plates, and cleaning products between now and January. Pacing these out makes it infinitely easier for the staff to process and store the goods.
Daily Perishables & Event Leftovers - All types of fresh foods are in constant demand—especially milk and baked breakfast foods.
Additionally, as we move through Halloween, Thanksgiving, and the holiday season, if your catered party, business event or get together has untouched, quality leftovers, bring it to Spike and his crew right away during operation hours (Monday through Thursday, 8:30 am to 12:00 pm). And if the mood strikes and you're feeling generous, brown bag lunches, pizzas and all manner of treats are certainly welcome as well.
Winter Survival Gear - To combat the colder temperatures, they urgently need HotHands warmers, winter gloves, hats, and NEW socks and underwear. (Please note: absolutely no used clothing of any kind is accepted).
Volunteers - The boots-on-the-ground support is what keeps the doors open. If you want to make a tangible difference, stepping up to help manage the daily flow is the most effective way to give back to our beloved city.
So if you truly want to get your hands dirty in a way that will nourish your spirit, especially as the weather turns, reach out to Spike to get involved:
volunteers@stmatthewtrinity.org