Language is not a Barrier

Thursday, July 09, 2009

Today we served a family of 5.  

As the mother of 3 motioned for a pen and paper, I noticed the family communicating to one another in sign language.  I wrote down, "give me a minute to print out some guidelines for our program," then picked up our bin of toys.  I signed "only 1" to each of the kids and their faces lit up.

The father filled out an application and all the required items were copied and turned in.  In the meantime, the kids sat contentedly, playing with their new toys and signing to one another.

Most importantly: a family that needs a couch is now eligible for one the next time they check with our Community Assistance Give-Away program.

In the end, community assistance was provided as it would be to any family (with only minor changes to the process).  What struck me was that, regardless the differences in language - whether English, Spanish, or sign language - The Christian Center has the capacity to serve so many in need.  

The Christian Center strives to serve others in need - no matter their culture, disability, or language.  That, we believe, truly reaches to the depth of what Christianity is all about.

Andrea Colias - Community Relations Coordinator