CHICAGO (CBS) — An organization in the Uptown neighborhood is helping people in need celebrate Christmas, even if its volunteers don’t celebrate the holiday themselves.
The event Tuesday was a meal for those in need at the Dina and Eli Field EZRA Multi-Service Center, at 909 W. Wilson Ave., provided by the Jewish United Fund Café.
Kimberly Michaelson-Epstein has been volunteering at the cafe for more than four years. Once a month she takes orders and serves a meal.
“This is the best thing I do all month,” Michaelson-Epstein said.
During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, a tent city sprung up in the Rogers Park area, prompting her to get involved.
“It’s just really important to me to try to give back,” Michaelson-Epstein said. “You know there are so many people suffering.”
The café serves people who are struggling in all kinds of ways.
“The majority of people we see here are dealing with low income, housing instability issues, food instability issues and also just not being a safe community,” said social worker Rachel Singer.
And even though the free café is run by a Jewish organization, making Christmas special for Christians fits right in with its mission.
“Throughout history, Jews have been ostracized and unwelcome in many areas, so we do everything we can to make sure everyone feels comfortable here, regardless of their religion,” Singer said.
Volunteers like Michaelson-Epstein provide a feeling of home.
“She’s a warm person,” client Lamonte Darden said. “She greets everyone and it makes everyone feel happy.”
In the cafe, customers do not queue up like in a typical soup kitchen. Volunteers serve them at their tables to create a more dignified setting.
“Stability, community and dignity is also something we emphasize,” Singer said.
Servers and diners all reap the benefits.
“Now I’ve been doing it long enough where I know people and know their names,” Michaelson-Epstein said. “We have stories and history among each other.”
“It’s like family,” Darden said.
In addition to feeding people through meals and a food pantry, the Uptown facility also offers health screenings, exercise classes and assistance with receiving public benefits.
Marie Saavedra
