Last week, the Operation Northern Comfort Board was visited by John Tumino, founder of In My Father’s Kitchen. It was an enlightening and stirring occasion.
In My Father’s Kitchen deals with those folks we see (and sometimes don’t want to see) on street corners throughout the Syracuse area, with signs that say ‘need help’, ‘out of work’, etc. They’re living in some interesting outdoor spaces right in the middle of town. Life is going to get more difficult for them as winter approaches.
IMFK provides meals – “food to open the door to people’s hearts”; basic necessities; help is offered; a psychiatrist sometimes rides with the team.
54 people have been nudged away from the streets to date – I believe that this is a signal accomplishment. More people could be reached if IMFK achieved its dream of owning a recreational vehicle, which could be used as a mobile office. Think of the street discussions which could be held inside a warm space!!