Answering the Call: Serving with Heart and Hope

Volunteers make a difference at Sacramento Loaves & Fishes. For over two decades, Lynn has been a warm presence in this space, faithfully showing up every Thursday to serve those who need it most. She began her volunteer journey in Sonoma County in the late ’90s, knowing her heart belonged with helping people without a place to call home. Her dedication led her to the Loaves & Fishes Dining Room, where she discovered the joy of personal, face-to-face interactions that brought the chance to make friends and share a listening ear. “I love the people here,” says Lynn. Every week, she eagerly anticipates the familiar hugs, smiles, and elbow nudges from the guests as she serves them a drink at the lunch line.

Lynn standing next to one of her favorite people, J.R

The Dining Room at Loaves & Fishes, especially as winter approaches, becomes an essential place for many in Sacramento’s unhoused community. It’s here that Lynn and volunteers like her provide much more than food—they offer connection, warmth, and a sense of belonging. “It’s a warm, fuzzy, heartwarming experience,” she says. “I get more out of serving than the guests do from being served. Loaves & Fishes makes me appreciate everything that I have.” This gratitude fuels Lynn’s passion, even when the work is challenging, as it was during the COVID-19 pandemic when she had to step back from volunteering. Yet, she was amazed by how the staff persevered, ensuring guests were still served, a commitment that inspired her to return as soon as she could.

Lynn and friends with a message to Loaves & Fishes during the pandemic, hung outside the serving window.

Through the years, Lynn has watched as many guests took steps toward stability, gaining jobs, housing, and even returning to school. These transformations affirm her belief in the importance of Loaves & Fishes’ mission: to provide consistent, compassionate support that helps people move forward. It’s a hopeful reminder of what’s possible.

As our lunch lines grow in the Dining Room, so does the need for helping hands. Each volunteer, from those serving meals to those offering a kind word, plays a part in creating a sanctuary for Sacramento’s unhoused. If you’d like to join Lynn in making a difference, please reach out to our volunteer coordinator, Cyndy Pressley, at volunteers@sacloaves.org.