Stories

an Interview with Rachel Holmes – a current Mission Year participant

Where are you living?

I live on the Shoreditch and Bethnal Green border and I’m part of St Peters Bethnal Green church.

Who do you live with?

Three lovely girls – one who works full time in the city and two girls who do a mixture of volunteering and paid work.

What do you spend you days doing?

As part of the Mission Year programme I volunteer for the Trussell Trust’s foodbank network, which give out emergency to food to people in crisis

What is Foodbank?

Food is given to those crisis who are going hungry due to various reasons – such as having benefits being delayed, or receiving an unexpected bill.  Foodbanks don’t just give food but also to listen to clients and help them find ways to support themselves.

How are you finding it?

It’s a really inspiring place to be. Before I started Mission Year and working for foodbank I knew theoretically there were people in need, but when you actually meet clients and see them really struggle you completely see the value of why you’re doing it first-hand.  I love that it’s a really practical way to help people out.

Any things you’ve learnt so far…?

I’ve realised everyone can do something to help others. Most people can donate a few tins to their local foodbank and most people can help pack bags to give to people. I think I’ve learnt that lots of people are more generous than they think they are and they just need to find ways that they can help.

Why did you decide to do Mission Year?

Good question! I wanted a way to reach out into local community and be part of a local church that had that vision. And I wanted to live with others who had that similar heart for reaching the community.  Part of the reason was the realisation that if you want to see change in a community you have to be part of it -rather than coming in and out and seeing it as a project. But if you live there and struggle with the systems things become your problems to overcome as well, which makes it all seem a lot more real and authentic.

How are you finding the year so far?

I’m learning lots about community living and enjoying being part of a local community.

How does the house work?

I live with three wonderful housemates and we get on really well! While there have been a few tense moments, we’re getting good at forgiving, moving on and seeing things from other perspectives.  The fact that everyone has a shared vision means that even when you’re not ‘feeling up for it’ one day, others will inspire you by their stories of hope and transformation So you remember that you’re not the only one trying to do something but you’re part of something much bigger.