PORTLAND, Ore. — As Portland teachers fight for change, students make a difference in their own way inside the kitchen of Blanchet House, a popular day center in Old Town for homeless people.
“I think it’s interesting that there’s so many people that come through the doors,” said Grant High School junior Jonah Diltz.
“I like the feeling of helping someone and like making people happy,” added his sister, Mae Diltz, who is a freshman at Grant High School.
With classes canceled due to the Portland Public Schools teacher strike, it leaves them and many other students with little to do.
“It’s kind of boring just staying at home,” Mae said.
“I don’t really like that I’m doing nothing, and I feel like I’m wasting my time,” her brother agreed.
Instead, they’re filling their time by serving meals to those in need and experiencing a different side of Portland firsthand.
“Volunteering at Blanchet House can teach students that people experiencing homelessness are human beings, and they’re in need of your compassion and help,” said Julie Showers, the communications director for Blanchet House.
“I know that it’ll make them feel better, and it makes me feel better, knowing that they have a bit more security,” added Jonah. “There’s nothing occupying my day; currently, this is a good way to occupy my day.”
Blanchet House is always looking for more volunteers, especially during lunch when students are typically in class. There is also the option to volunteer from home.
Click here for more on how students can get involved with helping the homeless at Blanchet House.
