Gretel Cusell
Together, we go that extra mile to help people
The food bank at Genesareth Church is run by coordinator Grietje Cusell. Every Thursday afternoon, 45 clients come to pick up a crate and bag full of food. Together with 14 volunteers, Grietje works hard every week to make this happen. She has seen the number of clients drop tremendously. From over 100 last year to 45 now. Poverty is rising, but the number of people going to the food bank is falling. That is strange. There have been discussions with Alderman Bouke Velsen about how this is possible and what can be done about it. Grietje clearly goes beyond distributing and packing food and other groceries. She is committed to helping those in need. And is always looking ahead. She looks out for people and often helps direct them to the right aid agencies. So not just the problem, not enough money for food, but addressing the cause.
"It's tomato time, so now tomatoes come in all colors and sizes."
The work of a volunteer
Grietje has long been associated with the church. With great energy, she runs this food bank location. Volunteers walk in and out and Grietje keeps a close eye on everything. Lifting too heavy? No, no one does that alone. Many hands make light work. So together they lift the crates and heavy bags. Lots of food and drink is delivered by local supermarkets and stores. From overproduction to donations. There is no lack of generosity from business owners and shopkeepers here. Grietje is also on top of things and makes sure there is a good balance in the supply. She walks past the bags and shows me what's in them. "Look, for example, it is tomato time now and you see tomatoes in all sizes and colors, also there is plenty of bread that comes from the baker's freezers and lots of other fruits and vegetables. It's not nearly enough for the whole week, but people can eat from this for 2-3 days on average," Grietje says.
The store
Gretel's big dream is a transformation of the food bank. She actually wants a store where people can choose what they bring. "Because yes, not everyone likes Brussels sprouts or knows how to prepare an artichoke, so why should we force them to bring it?" She would also like to be able to give cooking demonstrations or explanations on how to make certain dishes with the products they get. It is also often ignorance and a few tips will help them a lot.
The plans for the store are in place. So are the drawings for the remodel. Talks are now being held with the church. How long it will take Grietje does not know, but rather today than tomorrow.
More than just a food bank
Grietje knows the clients who come here well. And, like other volunteers, often goes the extra mile. For example, one time a woman with children found herself alone after her husband left her. Grietje did not hesitate for a moment and started calling around and within 2 weeks this woman was helped with a complete furnishing for her house and the right step towards professional help. That's what gives Grietje energy. No matter how sad the story, helping helps. A colleague of hers noticed that a client had been walking for months on shoes that were far too old, with holes and completely worn out. He asked about the size of his shoes and the following week he brought other good, shoes for him. A small gesture, but so important. Of course, this is not the job of the volunteers, but this shows the warmth and attention these people have for their fellow man.
"It's not just the fish you give, but the rod that helps them learn to fish themselves."
On the road to healing
The story behind the issues is often harrowing. Gretel also used to visit people's homes to assess their eligibility for the food bank. It is then necessary to have insight into the financial situation. An insight into someone's life is uncomfortable for many people. They are embarrassed and afraid to ask for help. Once they cross that threshold, perspective returns. Grietje: "It's not only the fish you give, but also the fishing rod that helps them learn to fish themselves." Step by step, everyone can walk their path toward healing and their own independent life.
"I'm retired and I want to do something!"
How does it work?
"Volunteers are always welcome. We have 12 volunteers now and I have room for 15 people. We could especially use young people. Muscles are still a bit lacking among all the pensionados," Grietje says with a smile on her face. "For young people it might not be so common to volunteer because of their busy lives, but with a few hours we are also helped. And an internship is also possible. There are credits to be earned with that and you do something nice for another person right away."
Curious or would you like to do some too? Anyone can report to Gretel on Thursday mornings between 10:00 - 12:00 in the Genesareth Church. Then you can see right away what things are like here.
People in Minima Foundation (MIM).
The People in Minima Foundation helps people on their way to a better life. Do you know someone who could use help or might qualify for the food bank? Walk in to MIM at Uiterwaard 27. Any first step can help a person on their way.
