Warming Hands, Warming Hearts – (Ellen F. Broder) - 02/17/2025

In 2011, we posted a newsletter story written by Ellen F. Broder, longtime friend and supporter of The INN. The story is simple. As a volunteer at the Mary Brennan INN soup kitchen, we often get to know the guests on a personal level, and find out their needs. In this case, it was a bitterly cold winter, and something as simple as a pair of warm gloves made a difference in two lives; that of the guest and volunteer alike. Now, 14 years later, there are still plenty of people in need who seek our help, especially during the colder months. As a volunteer or donor of The INN, you have the opportunity to make a difference in so many ways. Right now, we are accepting winter clothing and outerwear, especially for men. Visit www.the-inn.org/donategoods for details.

 

Spring 2011 “INN The News”

Miracles at the Mary Brennan INN Soup Kitchen – By Ellen F. Broder

I was sponsoring a meal at the Mary Brennan INN soup kitchen when a guest I’ve known for a long time came over to say hello. As I touched his cold hands, I instantly knew he needed gloves; at that moment he asked if there were any gloves for him I went to check, searching but not finding a pair. Sadly, I had to go back and tell him I was sorry, there were no gloves.

Recently I came back to volunteer at the Mary Brennan INN. As I was bringing a tray to one of the tables, I saw my “friend.” We gave a big “Hola” to each other, asking how we were both doing. It was freezing out and I noticed he still wasn’t wearing gloves. I went to see if we had any gloves for him. I walked into the sorting room, hoping that this time I would find a pair. To my amazement sitting on the shelf were new men’s lined leather gloves in his size! I couldn’t believe my eyes, I smiled to myself and without hesitation wrapped them up to bring to my friend.

I returned to the dining room, walked over and handed him the bag. He gave me a hug and thanked me, not even knowing what was inside. I turned and walked away, feeling good that I was able to help. As my friend opened the bag, he raised his head and looked over at me. With huge smiles, we gave each other a silent thumbs up. I was so happy that I was able to give him what he needed most on this very cold day.

Later I looked across the room, he was trying on one of the gloves moving his fingers back and forth, not knowing I could see him. His grin stretched from ear to ear as I caught my breath. My eyes misted, as I just witnessed a moment that I will never forget. I was completely in awe of the situation as my life was forever touched.

I never would have thought that a single pair gloves could have made such a difference in both our lives. It is an experience I will carry with me wherever I go, warming my heart, like the gloves that warmed his hands.

I truly felt that a miracle had taken place that day at the Mary Brennan INN soup kitchen.