By Randy Savoie, BCL

Joseph, a homeless man, stands outside the St. Jude Community Center on one of those muggy April days on the edge of the French Quarter in New Orleans.

He’s beaming with pride.

“It’s a blessing especially when you see young folks come out and do something like this,” says Joseph. “It just impresses upon your mind and your heart. It really does.”

Joseph is referring to the steaming plate of Red Beans and Rice with Cajun Sausage – a local favorite- that he just devoured- a meal prepared and served by New Orleans Job Corps Center’s Culinary Arts Class as part of Global Youth Service Day.

He’s one of 100 homeless persons who are served on this day. And, for most of them, it’s the best meal they will have all week-maybe all month.

The good deed doesn’t go unnoticed or unappreciated by Joseph.

“It’s not just what these young people did, it’s the thought that really counts, man,” he says.

“It gives them a chance to give back to the community and it instills something that’s positive in them-to see those who are less fortunate. It’s great for them to reach out to us who are less fortunate and help us.”

The feeling was mutual.

The students themselves felt as proud as Joseph.

Culinary trainee Kendell Perkins said, “It feels great to give back to the community and help people in need and to see how happy they are while they’re eating that makes me feel good.”

Kendell’s classmate Charles added,”It makes me feel good because I feel bad for the homeless; I want to continue doing this.”

And the homeless depart back to life on the city streets.

Back to the daily grind.

But on this day, with smiles on their faces as the aroma of  red beans-n-rice fills the air and the sweet sound of New Orleans Jazz flows through those French Quarter streets.