A favorite quote of mine comes from Fred Rogers, the children’s television personality. He shared how his mom would comfort him when he was a frightened child. If news events were scary, she would say, “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.”
I think there’s a bit of that frightened child in me right now, and maybe in most of us.
That’s why I’ve been gratified to hear about chef Jose Andres, the founder of World Central Kitchen. This organization, which Andres launched in 2010 in response to a massive earthquake in Haiti, has provided over 450 million fresh, nourishing meals worldwide to those caught in crisis situations. Basically, they cook good meals for hungry people.
In April 2024 an Israeli strike in Gaza killed seven World Central Kitchen workers, an action Israel later called a “mistake.” Nevertheless, Andres and his crew continue to be helpers, despite running very low on supplies in Gaza, where Israel imposed a humanitarian blockade on food, medicine and other aid until all hostages taken in Hamas’ 2023 terrorist attack are released.
In a recent interview on National Public Radio, Andres was asked how he keeps going in dark times. His answer echoed Fred Rogers. When times are particularly bleak, he said, “The best of humanity shows up.”
Those are words to contemplate in this season of Easter. Jesus gave us a blueprint for helping: Feed the hungry, welcome the stranger, clothe the naked, care for the sick, visit the prisoner.
Catholic Relief Services helps the world on our behalf. Launched by the U.S. Catholic bishops at the end of World War II to assist survivors in Europe, CRS has served more than 200 million people in more than 100 countries on five continents. Recent drastic cuts to USAID have impacted their budget. They need our financial help more than ever.
Besides monetary donations, there are so many ways to be a helper. Is there a food bank in your town? Have you donated blood to the Red Cross lately? Is there a neighbor who might need a friendly call?
What if during these days of Easter we tried each day to think of a way to be a helper? Start a journal and make a list.
Looking for helpers is good advice for the frightened child. Being a helper is a way to move beyond fear.
Effie Caldarola is a wife, mom and grandmother who received her master’s degree in pastoral studies from Seattle University.