For The Love of Giving Back

The summer of 2021, our members here at Shelter Unity donated multiple trays of Chinese food to Bernice Place, a sector of the Elizabeth Coalition to House the Homeless located in Elizabeth, New Jersey. The Bernice Place primarily provides shelter for children's 6-14 years old who come from low socioeconomic status families. Over the course of two months, we were able to feed 40 kids and staffs full meals every Monday. We are so grateful to have this opportunity to give back to the youth of our community.

However, the moments we cherished the most reached beyond just the food; it's the conversations, laughters, and emotional connections created at the shelter. I enjoyed playing UNO with the kids as

they ate their food, reading the words wrapped in the fortune cookies, and simply being able to give them a hug. These children made me recognize my daily privileges I so often took for granted. The smiles and love they continue to portray makes me wish I can stay just a little bit longer.

Shelter Unity misses seeing these faces and the bright personalities each of these individuals have. Please reach out if you would like to be a member of this summers project or are looking for volunteer opportunities focused on working with homeless shelter children. Be kind and stay safe!

Stephanie Yu