104 Things: First time volunteering at the Frontline (A very toned down front line)

Yesterday, was a rather interesting Saturday. I followed my workmate, F, to pack food for the poor on the streets of Kuala Lumpur at this place in Kota Damansara, and we sorted out clothes to give away or sell at a flea market.

After the packing and sorting out, the newbies were brought into the auditorium for a short briefing before heading out to Klang bus station in the city.

I followed the Scottish Muslim-convert founder of Reach Out, Pete, and he explained a lot about the organization. I came to know that Feexa, the co-founder, is his wife. I found that really sweet. That they work together for this.

As an ex-policeman, he knows the streets well. I voiced out my concerns of a dangerous "crowd" and he said that if someone gave you food at 2am at night, you are a "friend".

During the ride, I learnt that it's not about only giving but its also about getting these people off the streets, to start life again.

There were loads of stories told and too many to blog it out. But they are all embedded into my head and if I remember, I'll tell it to you.

When we arrived at the place, I got a bit intimidated actually seeing the 250 recipients waiting. It sure is a different crowd. I was the first to distribute the food and as I gave them out, my heart became 'soft' and a lot more 'softer' after we entered the storm drain area.