Children, CT Scans, and Chili!

Today we began with a visit to Rosspoint elementary school in Harlan, Kentucky. We got to visit kindergarten, first grade, and third grade classes and interact with the kids. It was Dr. Seuss week at Rosspoint, so we got to read some fun stories with the kids! After meeting the younger kids, we went to the eighth-grade class and talked to them about college life. Some of our participants even gave the kids an impromptu lesson in Chinese! The kids had lots of questions about what we were studying, where we had traveled, and how they could also take advantage of opportunities around them.

Stella, Lori, and Siyao teaching the 8th graders about the Chinese language!

Our group had a lot of fun with the Rosspoint Wildcats!

Our next stop for the day was at Appalachian Regional Hospital. We started our visit there with a delicious lunch that they generously provided! We got to choose between fried chicken and ribs, and sides- vegetables and cornbread…a true southern meal! After lunch, the community outreach coordinator gave us of tour of the entire facility. We got to see the room setups, some of the hospital’s newest equipment, peeked into the lab and the explored the morgue! Moreover, we were informed about the biggest health issues that the residents of this county face. Diabetes, occupational injuries, and chronic respiratory illnesses are some of the most prevalent issues.

The old morgue! (Not in use anymore.)

Lastly, we visited today was Christ’s Hands, a food bank and meal distribution center in the heart of town. Dinner was served at 5, so we got there a little bit earlier to help set up for dinner distribution and pack boxed dinners to be delivered to people who need food but can’t leave their house. Nearly 70% of the meals that Christ’s Hands provides are hand-delivered. After preparing dinners, we distributed the meals prepared. It was extremely rewarding to be able to interact with the other volunteers; some of which have been volunteering at Christ’s Hands for over 15 years. They were so friendly and enthusiastic about the work they do. We also spoke with the locals who were more than willing to share their experiences over dinner (it was chili night!). Afterwards, we helped the other volunteers clean up and pack leftovers that will eventually be distributed on “Leftovers Friday”. Back at the house we sat down to enjoy some toasty grilled cheese with tomato soup and broccoli-an American classic! We can’t wait to wrap up our day with a nightly reflection. See you tomorrow!

Our group by the beautiful murals at Christ's Hands.

Emily and Tory made good friends with Kale, who has been serving meals every Tuesday for 15 years.