A birthday party is never complete without dessert. And as part of Portland Rescue Mission’s 8th annual Birthday Party for the Homeless, that dessert came in the form of a van-load of cream pies from Shari’s Cafe and Pies.
But the generosity didn’t end with dessert.
Carrie Henderson, Marketing Manager for Shari’s Cafe and Pies.
Marketing Manager Carrie Henderson decided she didn’t want to simply donate the pies, she wanted to be a part of the actual festivities and serve it to our birthday guests. Having never really spent much time with the men and women experiencing homelessness prior to the party, it was an experience she won’t soon forget.
“I really enjoyed being at the Burnside Shelter for the party,” she said. “When we were asked to be a part of it, we were excited for the opportunity to be involved with Portland Rescue Mission.
“I thought the event was great. The pie, photos, karaoke and nail painting—it was a lot of fun and a great time all around. It’s so wonderful to have an event like this.”
For Carrie, it also helped emphasize the importance of recognition, and reiterated to her how much power there is in giving someone hope with a warm smile, time and friendly conversation. It can brighten up the darkest of places and bring joy and delight to the weariest of souls.
“There is so much stigma attached to the homeless population,” she explained. “And events like these allow those men and women to feel more humanized by celebrating a day that everyone deserves to have celebrated…
“I’m looking forward to more opportunities like these.”
And we at the Mission feel the same way. We are so grateful to Shari’s Café and Pies for helping us give hope and restore life to the men, women and children suffering from homelessness and addiction through their generosity. Our Birthday Party for the Homeless would not have been possible without their support.
If you are a business, and you want to get involved with the Mission, please contact Erin Moussallem at [email protected] or give her a call at 503-746-9686.