Letter: Consider volunteering at food bank

Seven years ago, our vegetable garden produced a bumper crop, too much for our family to consume. My wife advised me to donate the extra vegetables to The Crisis Center of Johnson County.

I arrived just before noon on one of those beastly hot and humid Iowa summer days. There was a line of clients waiting for the doors to open. I'm ashamed to tell you, despite living here more than 30 years, I was shocked so many in our county have food insecurity concerns. Our vegetables were received with open arms and I had a chance to glimpse the activity inside. I vowed to volunteer there after I retired from the University of Iowa.

After completing training, I started in 2010. It's the major highlight of my week and is extremely satisfying to give back to the community that's been so good to me since moving here in 1979. It's a real joy to volunteer at The Crisis Center. Often I serve as greeter, calling clients back into the pantry where they can shop. During my three-hour shift, 80-100 families will be served. I get to know wonderful clients. They come from all walks of life and have differing immediate needs and concerns. Some, like me, are immigrants to the United States.

The food bank is currently recruiting new volunteers. There's something for everyone to do. If you're seeking a volunteer activity, I heartily recommend that you consider joining the team at The Crisis Center.

Jonathan Poulton

Iowa City