Ben’s Baskets

Ben has been coming to Kairos Free Store for awhile now. It’s not just about the food. It’s also about connection. And Kairos is a place where Ben feels that he belongs — so much so that he wanted to be a part of the team.

Kairos Volunteer Coordinator David Pett said, “It’s great that some of our clients want to be part of the team. They really want to connect and don’t necessarily know how. Our part is to work out logistically what that can look like. They may not be able to drive a truck or work in the warehouse, but we can find spaces where people can take ownership.”

For Ben, ownership looks like shifting shopping baskets from the check-out back to the beginning of the queue. It’s a little thing, but it keeps the flow of people moving through the Free Store. And for Ben, it means belonging, having a responsibility in a place that feels like home.

“His face just comes alive,” Stuart commented. “Moving baskets gets him involved. He can be a part of this place.”

It’s all part of the Kairos belief in giving a hand-up, not a hand-out. Sharing responsibility helps create a sense of community where everyone can play a part.

If you would like to play a part in Kairos, ask our friendly team about volunteer opportunities.