Working at Hospitality House has been one of the most impactful experiences of my life. The shelter, nestled in the picturesque mountains of North Carolina, is more than just a refuge; it’s a lifeline for many. The labor involved in creating pantry boxes and feeding those in need is demanding but deeply fulfilling.
Each morning starts early. As the sun rises over the Blue Ridge Mountains, the shelter begins to stir.
One of the most rewarding tasks is assembling pantry boxes. These boxes are filled with non-perishable food items, toiletries, and sometimes small treats, meant to provide a semblance of normalcy and dignity to those who receive them. Creating these boxes is an exercise in both practicality and compassion. We ensure each box contains balanced meals, considering the preferences and needs of our guests. It’s a labor-intensive process, involving sorting donations, checking expiration dates, and meticulously packing items.
The work is physically demanding, but the emotional labor can be even more taxing. Interacting with the shelter’s residents exposes us to a wide array of personal stories.
Each person’s story is a reminder of the precarious nature of stability and the strength of the human spirit. These interactions underscore the importance of our work. We’re not just providing food and shelter; we’re offering hope and a sense of community.
The sense of camaraderie among the staff and volunteers is another highlight. We come from different backgrounds, united by a common purpose. There’s a profound sense of fulfillment in working together towards a shared goal. Whether it’s preparing meals, sorting donations, or simply offering a listening ear, every task contributes to a larger mission.
Working at Hospitality House is more than an internship; it’s a journey of empathy and connection. The labor, both physical and emotional, is demanding, but the rewards are immeasurable. Each day brings new challenges and new stories, but also new opportunities to make a difference in someone’s life. And in the process, we find our own lives enriched in ways we never imagined. -
Neshelle Matthews
I recently stayed at Hospitality House and had a wonderful experience! The staff was incredibly friendly, and the amenities were top-notch. If you're ever in Dubai, I highly recommend it. On a side note, during my stay, I also consulted a doctor for my high cholesterolemia Dubai, and the care was exceptional!