We got us
I was in a few different establishments yesterday—restaurants, offices, bottle shops, etc.—and every single one had some sort of drive going to support Western NC. Some had a little, some had a lot, but they were all trying to do what they can. It reminds us that people are so good. Sure, there are a few assholes, but the majority of us want the best for each other..
Even though the world can sometime feel sad, scary and divided, gestures like what we are seeing—people giving what they can, helping how they can—show that the spirit of generosity is alive. We're not perfect, but when push comes to shove, we try our best to help. It’s unfortunate it takes tragedy to remind us of this, but as we scramble to help our people out West, navigate the bullshit political noise of the next month and a half and deal with whatever else life decides to throws at us, remember: You are good. We are good. And we got us!
THE GOOD IN RALEIGH
Last week, a wonderful human named Brenda was provided breakfast from A Place at the Table, a pay what you can cafe. She earned income as a part of The Great Raleigh Cleanup’s Workforce program. She was gifted a pair of shoes and socks by a generous resident. And at the end of her shift, she received a bag of hygiene products to sustain her for 30 days, provided by The No Woman, No Girl Initiative. This all occurred in the same day!
If anyone needs a reminder of what kindness and community look like, tell them to look at Raleigh. - Preston
Last Thursdays: A Special Day for the Workforce
The Last Thursday of each month is a special day for our Workforce. It’s the day that, thanks to the generosity of our monthly donors, we can hire more than the four workers supported by our City of Raleigh contract, allowing us to expand our environmental and social impact.
The most recent Last Thursday was particularly meaningful. After our seven workers cleared away over 200 pounds of litter, we passed out clothes and hygiene packs that had been donated by generous members of our community.
We ended the day by sharing pizza, enjoying a moment of camaraderie and appreciation after all the hard work. The clothes, hygiene packs, and pizza were more than just gestures; they bring a sense of dignity and belonging to our workers, reminding them that their efforts and well-being truly matter to the community. But none of this would be possible without you, our amazing community. We’re always accepting clothing donations to continue aiding those who need it most. Your support makes this all possible!
SALVAvida
We headed recently out to clean up near the Salvation Army, where the white styrofoam litter scattered across the area was hard to miss. Just as we were about to begin, a city bus pulled up, and the crowd dispersed—except for one person. A figure in a red hood remained, quietly staying behind while everyone else left. Without a word, he started picking up the litter we were preparing to tackle.
That person was Salvatore. When I asked him why he was cleaning up, his response was simple yet powerful. “I stay here at the Salvation Army, and I can’t stand seeing it like this,” he said. That was all I needed to hear. He didn’t have a phone or ID, but I knew immediately that he belonged on the Workforce team.
Salvatore joined us recently, and he worked like a machine from the start. His work ethic earned him a spot at the top of the team. At just 18 years old, Salvatore is the youngest member we’ve ever had. It’s hard to imagine navigating homelessness at such a young age, but he’s facing it head-on.
We’re proud to have him with us and committed to helping him however we can. This is just the beginning for young Sal. Stay tuned for more updates!