Luis Arbolay

“Salvation Farms, for me, has been a wonderful experience so far. As an intern and volunteer this summer, I have learned the importance of food security and realized that there is so much food put to waste out there, which we don’t even notice. I’m also interning for the Wild Branch Valley Farm, where I work in the gardens and supervise chores with the Coville boys – Joshua, Micah, and Noah. My time here has begun to turn my life around, changing lifestyles and feeling good about knowing I have given my part to those facing hunger. Seeing the smiles on people’s faces when you come in and donate several boxes that weigh from 14 to 20 pounds, full of greens and roots, or working together with a group of familiar faces to harvest and gather surplus that go to those who need it instead of being put to waste or forgotten.

I’m honored to be housed with the Director of Salvation Farms, Theresa; a role model, strong, spiritual, and God sent. The opportunity that I have right now to work fighting hunger makes me feel like a super hero; Theresa is like Mother Earth and I’m her sidekick. The world today faces many problems, but hunger is definitely increasing as everyday goes by. We are all aware of it, but do we take part in it? Most of us just feel bad and guilty, but in order to see progress we must have action. Let those that suffer from hunger survive, as we are all equal and the beauty God put in our hearts shall forever shine and not perish. I’m looking forward to continuing to learn and work for this project – it has not only made me a stronger person, but a believer.”