A Day in My Life Blog

               A Day in My Life as a Red Cross Volunteer: Giving Food to Those in Need

I am Kurt Denzel P. Brioso, volunteering with the Red Cross is an experience that has shaped my life in ways I never expected. Every day is different, but there is one constant: the overwhelming sense of fulfillment that comes from helping others. This past weekend, I spent the day distributing food to those in need, an experience that reminded me of the profound impact small acts of kindness can have. Here’s a glimpse into what a day in my life as a Red Cross volunteer looks like when I’m out in the community, providing food to people who need it most.

Early Morning: A Sense of Purpose

I wake up early, around 7:30 a.m., knowing that today will be a busy but rewarding day. The sun is still low in the sky, casting a warm glow through my window. After a quick breakfast, I gather the supplies I’ll need for the day: my Red Cross vest, a sturdy pair of shoes, and gloves. It’s important to wear these not only for identification but also for safety and comfort. As I walk out the door, I feel a rush of anticipation. I never quite know what to expect, but I know that I’ll be doing something meaningful.

By 9:00 a.m., I arrive at the Philippine Red Cross Cam. Sur Chapter. It’s still early, and the parking lot is relatively empty, but as I walk through the doors, I’m greeted by the warm smiles of fellow volunteers. The energy is always infectious at these early morning shifts; there’s a shared understanding that we’re about to make a difference in the lives of people who are struggling.

Morning Briefing and Preparing the Food Packages

Before we head out into the community, we gather for a quick briefing. The logistics team provides updates on where the food deliveries are needed most, and we’re informed about any special circumstances or additional support required. Today, we’ll be distributing food to families who have recently faced natural disasters, as well as people experiencing homelessness in various parts of the city.

Once the briefing is over, we begin preparing the food packages. The Red Cross works with local food banks, community partners, and generous donors to ensure that the packages are well-rounded and nutritious. They usually contain bread, canned vegetables, fresh fruit, rice, pasta, and sometimes even bottled water or hygiene products. Each food parcel is carefully packed to ensure that it’s easy to transport and distribute. I often find myself reflecting on how something as simple as a well-packed bag of groceries can mean so much to someone in need.

As we work together to load the food into our vehicles, I can’t help but feel proud to be part of such an organized and thoughtful operation. I know that today, these bags will provide sustenance, hope, and dignity to people who might otherwise go without.

Hitting the Streets: Connecting with the Community

By 12:30 p.m., it’s time to hit the streets. We break up into small groups, each with a designated route,
and head out in our Red Cross vans. As we drive through the city, I’m always struck by how much need there is, even in areas that seem prosperous on the surface. It’s easy to forget how many people are living paycheck to paycheck or are struggling to make ends meet, until you see it firsthand.

Our first stop is a community center in a low-income neighborhood, where we’ve been asked to deliver food to a family that was affected by a recent flood. As I approach the door with a bag of groceries, I’m greeted by the mother of the family. She’s visibly relieved and thankful, and she invites me into her modest home for a moment to chat. Her eyes water as she explains how hard it’s been to rebuild after the flood destroyed their belongings. I listen intently, feeling a deep sense of empathy. I don’t have the words to make things better, but I do my best to reassure her that help is on the way.

The small moment of connection is humbling. It’s not just about delivering food, but about providing support, showing people that they are not forgotten. I leave with a renewed sense of purpose, knowing that this simple act of kindness will make a real difference in their lives.

Afternoon: Reflection and Wrapping Up the Day

By 2:00 p.m., our food distribution for the day is winding down. We’ve served several families, visited
local shelters, and distributed food at community centers. As I sit down for a break, I take a moment to reflect on everything I’ve experienced. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the scope of the need, but it’s also comforting to know that, as a volunteer, I’m part of a larger network of people working together to make the world a better place.

Before we head back to the headquarters, we take time to clean up and ensure that everything is organized for the next shift. I feel a sense of accomplishment as I look at the empty food packages and the smiling faces of those we’ve served. It’s been a long day, but every bit of effort has been worth it.

Evening: Going Home with a Full Heart

By the time I’m headed home, it’s already dusk. My body is tired, but my heart is full. Volunteering with the Red Cross has taught me many valuable lessons, but one of the most important is this: giving to others, whether it’s food, time, or a kind word, has a ripple effect. The small, everyday acts of kindness can transform lives, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to be part of that.

As I reflect on my day, I realize that while the food we give is important, it’s the connections we make and the compassion we share that truly matter. A day in the life of a Red Cross volunteer is more than just giving food—it’s about giving hope, restoring dignity, and showing the world that even in the toughest times, there is still love and support to be found.