Intercultural Contacts Embody Theology by Mary Stamp Ing Poverty and Oppression

38th Year of Publication Stories inside Homeless Coalition prepares for winter - p. 5 Social Justice Ministry serves in many ways - p. 7 At the Core seeks to feed 18,000 more - p. 9 September 2021 Micah 4:4 [email protected] (509) 535-1813 • 535-4112 CdA St. Vincent de Paul is Volume 38 Number 7 75 years old - p. 12 Calendar on page 11 Monthly newspaper and website covering faith in action throughout the Inland Northwest features 50+ events online at www.thefigtree.org • check The Fig Tree Facebook page daily for news and links Intercultural contacts embody theology By Mary Stamp ing poverty and oppression. Ross Carper’s half-time jobs as “Our commitment to and cel- director of Feast World Kitchen ebration of fair trade is a big and as director of missional en- part of who we are as a church, gagement at First Presbyterian because it supports people who Church intersected with plans for make a livelihood creating beauti- Feast to cater the church’s 32nd ful handicrafts,” he added. annual Jubilee Marketplace. Ross’ work with Feast World However, those plans changed Kitchen also expresses his com- as organizations began canceling mitment to work for justice across events with the local surge in cultures with refugees and im- COVID cases in August. migrants. With pandemic protocols in When in 2016, his full-time mind, it was going to be held work at the church dropped to half for one day, in person, outdoors time, he started a food truck busi- on Sept. 5—instead of two days ness, Compass Breakfast Wagon, inside in November. which brought together his neigh- Now organizers ask people to bors on the lower South Hill. shop fair trade vendors online As he did that, and connected throughout the fall for back-to- with former refugees, many ap- school to holiday gift shopping. proached him about how to start Links to fair trade vendors are a food truck or find a commercial posted at spokanefpc.org/jubilee- kitchen. international-marketplace. In 2019, the restaurant across For five years, Ross has helped the street from First Presbyte- the church plan the Jubilee Mar- rian—an Arctic Circle from the ketplace. 1960s to 2009 and then a sushi “It’s important for people to restaurant—was for sale. First make purchases from fair trade Presbyterian owns other nearby vendors, because they have been buildings—rented by Stepping hit by a lack of fair trade festi- Stones, a COP Shop and an ar- vals,” he said. “Buying fair trade chitecture firm. An elder, who goods supports communities that is a real estate agent, helped the are affected by the pandemic, as Sajda Nelson, who came in 2010, serving Iraqi lamb dish, is at take out window with church buy the restaurant. well as being impacted by ongo- Issa Bahadin, facilities worker who came from Sudan in 2017, and Ross Carper. Continued on page 4

Two women open The Way to Justice By Marijke Fakasiieiki by the justice system. “As women of color, we see World Relief gears up to Virla Spencer and Camerina It seeks to remove barriers things through the lens of race (Cam) Zorrozua, formerly with to access to lawyers, who are equity, because it is our life. resettle Afghan refugees the Center for Justice, opened among the highest paid profes- What we do now is influenced The Way to Justice, in February sionals in the country, Cam said. by everything we have done up nroute to Ft. Lee in Virginia, Mark Finney, executive to provide representation, impact Many lack the thousands of until now and everyone we’ve director of World Relief Spokane, saw the news that litigation, reform policies and do dollars needed to pay retainers. interacted with,” Cam said. EAfghanistan had fallen to the Taliban. advocacy. The Way to Justice offers relief The Center for Justice’s anti- He was joining staff from refugee resettlement offices around From Sept. 25 to 30, The Way to clients who can’t afford an racism mission drew them there. the country in “Operation Allies Rescue” to welcome and to Justice is hosting a Justice attorney. When no one else advocated for complete the applications for thousands of Afghan interpreters Week open house to introduce Virla worked for the Center students of color, they stepped and other allies trying to escape to freedom as their country their services to the community for Justice for more than 10 in. When people ran out of re- crumbles. and to offer assistance through years and Cam for more than sources, they called it discrimi- “Every day I speak with Afghan friends who tell me of their their driver’s relicensing and two years. When it closed, Virla nation. When no one else was family members fearing for their lives and desperate to escape,” post-conviction programs. told Cam, “Let’s start our own listening or paying attention, Mark said, anticipating that 18,000 people are in process to re- The community law firm center.” they did. They approached such ceive “Special Immigrant Visas” (SIV’s), in addition to 50,000 created and led by women of They knew their clients need- situations as advocates and at- of their dependent family members. color addresses barriers facing ed the programs that the center torneys. “It seems like a daunting task to evacuate and resettle that individuals negatively impacted had offered for 20 years. “If programs and services we many people, but I’m convinced that we can do it,” he affirmed. offered were not enough, we In resettling more than 10,000 refugees, he said that Spokane connected clients with commu- has succeeded because “everyone has pitched in.” nity partners.” Virla said. “World Relief will be welcoming Afghan allies to rebuild “We are unapologetically their lives in U.S. communities. Thousands of troops, non- driven by principles of racial profit workers and volunteers across our nation are ready justice. We announce ourselves to spring into action, just as we did in the 1970’s when the as an anti-racist organization,” modern refugee program was birthed from the evacuation of Cam said. Vietnam,” he said. Partnering with Martin Luther “Over the next few months, we will be welcoming new

King Jr. Community Center, neighbors from Afghanistan and other parts of the world to

Permit No. 1044 No. Permit their office is at 845 S. Sherman, Spokane. We are asking the community to stand alongside these

WA SPOKANE

Spokane, WA 99202-3571 WA Spokane, the MLK Center’s former site. refugees and other immigrants in our community,” Mark said. PAID

1323 S. Perry St. Perry S. 1323 He suggested three ways to help: U.S. POSTAGE U.S. Their client-centered, holistic

Organization

The Fig Tree Fig The approach means they meet with Continued on page 5 Non-Profit Continued on page 6 Page 2 - The Fig Tree - September 2021 Religion News Briefs Regional Ecumenical & Interfaith News Around the World Fig Tree offers directories, plans events World Council of Churches News, PO Box 2100 The Fig Tree summer news sors, grants, funding, circulation, nearly $7,000 from sponsors. CH - 1211 Geneva 2, Switzerland Tel: +41-22 791 6111 includes publication and distri- writing, editing and community The Fig Tree planning is un- Fax: +41-22 788 7244 www.oikoumene.org bution of the 2021-22 Resource outreach. derway for the 2022 Eastern Directory. “She is helping increase in- Washington Legislative Con- WCC honors former head Philip Potter Many volunteers, including come so we can expand our ference, which will be held on More than 100 people attended the virtual Aug. 23 several with Second Harvest of work. The staff and board of Saturday, Jan. 22, and for the webinar marking the 100th anniversary of the Aug. 19 the Inland Northwest, made de- directors will be engaging in Benefit Lunch, Friday, March birth of former World Council of Churches (WCC) gen- liveries of the bulk of the 16,000 strategic planning this fall,” said 4, and Benefit Breakfast, Friday, eral secretary Philip Potter, and coinciding with the 73rd copies possible. There are still editor Mary Stamp. March 9. Organizers of both anniversary of the WCC’s founding at its first assembly copies available to be ordered. The Fig Tree is also gearing events are considering options in Amsterdam, which Philip addressed as a student and The Fig Tree added to the up for the Fall Festival of Giv- of having the events be online, spokesperson for the youth delegates. responsibilities of Marijke Faka- ing from Oct. 21 through Giving hybrid and/or in person. As the first general secretary from the Global South, siieiki, whose new role is as Tuesday in December, as a time For information, call 535- he provided decisive leadership to WCC in a time of three-quarter time development to increase support from ongoing 4112, 535-1813 or email mary@ change, drawing on his deep spirituality and Christian and editorial associate. She is and new sponsors. Last year, the thefigtree.org or resourcedirec- faith,” said Ioan Sauca, WCC acting general secretary. assisting with ad sales, spon- Fall Festival of Giving raised [email protected]. His influence extended beyond his 12 years as general secretary,” said Ioan in a letter to Philip’s wife, Bishop emeritus Bärbel Wartenberg-Potter. From the WCC’s 1948 founding assembly, where he FAN names new director, sets clusters spoke on behalf of youth delegates, through his work on As the Faith Action Network to help move FAN forward. to uphold justice and compas- the WCC youth department from 1954 to 1960 and the (FAN) celebrates its 10th year, Elise, a long-time Seattle resi- sion, stands in public witness with Commission on World Mission and Evangelism from 1967 current co-director Elise De- dent, grew up in Yakima where those whose rights and safety are to 1972, when he became general secretary, Philip was a Gooyer will become the new FAN her family live. She understands under assault and is a partnership pivotal figure in the ecumenical movement and remained executive director, beginning Jan. and is committed to FAN’s state- for the common good. so, Ioan said. 1, 2022, following the retirement wide and multifaith identity. FAN plans and has held sev- Philip was general secretary during the controversy over of FAN’s founding co-director, FAN’s public policy work, led eral Cluster Meetings with its the WCC’s Program to Combat Racism, whose Special Paul Benz at the end of 2021. by Paul for 10 years, will continue Network of Advocating Faith Fund gave humanitarian grants to liberation movements Rooted in Catholic and inter- under a policy engagement direc- communities. Clusters build re- in Southern Africa. faith justice traditions, Elise has tor. A search process is underway. lationships, decide on advocacy “We remember with gratitude his uncompromising been FAN co-director for more Since June 11, 2011, FAN has plans and share advocacy updates. stand against racism, often in the face of vigorous criti- than seven years. She has given grown into a multifaith body The Pullman Cluster met Aug. 29. cism from some of the WCC’s larger member churches,” strategic, administrative and of communities and individu- The Spokane Cluster meets said Ioan. “His legacy is a mandate for us today, as racism programmatic leadership to FAN als—Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Saturday, Oct. 23, at Westminster remains a challenge to the world and the global Christian and helped its network and budget Buddhist, Sikh, Quaker and Uni- Congregational United Church of fellowship.” grow. She knows the organization tarian—across Washington. Christ, 411 S. Washington. Philip was born on the Caribbean island of Dominica, well and has the skills and vision It advocates for public policy For information, visit fanwa.org. worked in a lawyer’s chambers and as a legal assistant to Dominica’s attorney general, and trained for the Methodist ministry in Jamaica and later in Britain. He represented the Groups seek human rights award nominees Jamaican Student Christian Movement at the second World The City of Spokane’s Human when the Institute for Hate Stud- is how we can thank and honor Conference of Christian Youth in Oslo 1947, an event that Rights Commission (SHRC), ies will also honor this year’s win- them, promoting who and what propelled him into the international ecumenical movement. the Spokane County Human ners of the “Eva Lassman Take they are and what they do.” Before serving as WCC general secretary, Philip was a Rights Task Force (SCHRTF) Action Against Hate Award.” During September, the part- Methodist missionary in Haiti, worked for the Methodist and Gonzaga’s Institute for Hate “We work, live and play with ners will select recipients and Missionary Society in London and was chair of the World Studies (GIHS) invite people to enlightened friends, neighbors take videos of nominees, which Student Christian Federation from 1960 to 1968. submit nominees for the 2021 and co-workers who, alone or they will show at the gala and He was married to Doreen Cousins, a musician and Spokane Human Rights Award with others, find ways day in and share on YouTube following composer, from 1956 until her death in 1980. He married Champions by Sept. 8. day out to help others in need,” the event. Bärbel von Wartenberg in 1984 and moved with her to They are planning a gala Hu- said Lance Kissler of the SHRC, For information, email Spo- the Caribbean in 1985 to work as a lecturer and university man Rights Awards Event Satur- Dean Lynch of the SCHRTF and kaneHumanRightsAward@ chaplain until 1990. They then settled in Germany, where day, Nov. 6, if conditions allow, Kristine Hoover of GIHS. “This gmail.com. Philip died on March 31, 2015, at the age of 93. Ioan praised Philip for his commitment to dialogue with people of other faiths, to church unity and to concerns of church and society, and praised his guiding the ecumenical fellowship develop a global understanding of mission. Unity in North Idaho hosts Spirit Groups “We remember Philip’s unceasing support for women On Sunday, Oct. 10, the Unity healthy. Others are not. We live fy them, embrace our brokenness in WCC leadership, his 1974 statement that ‘sexism, like Spiritual Center of North Idaho in a culture that seems to be and surrender to a power greater racism, is a sin,’ and leadership his leading to a world begins a seven-week series drowning in addictions without than ourselves, we bring heal- conference on the Community of Women and Men in the called “Spirit Groups,” based on knowing it. The first step is to ing to ourselves and our world,” Church,” said Ioan. Fr. Richard Rohr’s book, Breath- break through our denial and to Susie said. “Above all, however, we remember Philip’s love for ing Under Water: Spirituality recognize we are all ‘underwa- “The genius of the 12 Step Pro- the Bible and the biblical exposition that often formed the and the 12 Steps.” ter,’ unaware that how we think, gram is the integration of spiritual core of his reports to WCC governing bodies,” he wrote. “During these stressful times, feel and behave can negatively principles with practical steps to The webinar reviewed Philip’s background and people cope in various ways,” impact ourselves and others.” transform our lives,” she said. relevance today. said Susie Leonard Weller, who Susie said some addictions, With Stephen Towles, the • Michael Jagessar, mission secretary of Caribbean and has a master’s degree in pasto- such as substance abuse, are Unity minister, Susie is offering Europe regions for the Council for World Mission, said ral ministry. “Some modes are obvious, while others are more the group in person or on Zoom, Caribbean roots influenced his life and call for systemic hidden, disguised and subtle. at various times and days. disobedience. The Fig Tree is published 10 months “We cannot heal what we do For information, call 208-664- continued in Sounding Board on page 10 each year, September through June. not acknowledge and accept our 1125 or email weller.susie@ Deadlines: addictions. By learning to identi- gmail.com. COPY - 3rd Fridays ADS - 4th Tuesdays It is published by The Fig Tree, 1323 S. Perry St., Spokane, WA 99202, a non-profit 501 (c) (3) organization. Sale The Fig Tree is Editorial Team Postponed Editor/Publisher/Photos - Mary Stamp reader supported Directory Editor - Malcolm Haworth (Again) Website Developer - Lorna Kropp Volunteer Coordinator - Kaye Hult First Presbyterian Church planned a one-day BECOME A SPONSOR! Development & Editing Assoc - Marijke Fakasiieiki outdoor Jubilee Fair Trade Marketplace Sept. 5. Editing - Catherine Ferguson SNJM, With the highly transmissible Delta variant of COVID-19, ❑ $20-$50 Sponsor ❑ $56-$250 Friend Mary Mackay, Dru Powers, postponed the event. Please support our wonderful Hannah Simmons ❑ $300-$1,200 Underwriter fair trade vendors through online shopping at these links! Fig Tree Board ❑ $45 for bulk order of 10 Nick Beamer, Barb Borgens, We will host a Jubilee event, when it is safe. ❑ $300/year pledge for five years Sandra Boudreaux, Lauri Clark-Strait, Catherine Ferguson SNJM, Corazon Scarves (Facebook) SEND YOUR DONATION TO Malcolm Haworth, Kaye Hult, The Olive Branch / Jeannette Rankin Peace Center (jrpc.org) Fred Jessett, Gary Jewell, The Fig Tree, 1323 S. Perry St., Spokane, WA 99202 Walter Kendricks, Trades of Hope (TradesofHope.com) Wade Schwartz, Mary Stamp, Ganesh Himal (GaneshHimalTrading.com or shop at Kizuri) NAME ______Tracey Waring, Anastasia Wendlinder ADDRESS ______Christ Kitchen (ChristKitchen.org) Copyright © 2021 CITY/STATE/ZIP Resilient Threads from Guatemala (ResilientThreadsGuatemala.org) ______(509) 535-1813 or 535-4112 PHONE ______Email: [email protected] Maya Earth Coffee and Maya Color (MundoMayaEnterprises.com) September 2021 - The Fig Tree - Page 3

GU Hate Studies Conference set for Nov. 4 to 6 Healing the Earth Vigil will be Oct. 3 at Cataldo A virtual International Conference on Hate Studies is Thurs- day to Saturday, Nov. 4 to 6, on the theme “Justice and Equity: A Vigil for the Healing of the prayers into actions For the working on separate aspects to Challenging Hate and Inspiring Hope.” The sixth such confer- Earth will be held from 3 to 4:30 Healing of the Earth,” said Gen heal our Earth can gather, report ence, it is one of the leading interdisciplinary academic forums p.m., Sunday, Oct. 3, at the Old Heywood, convenor of FLLC to each other what they are doing on hate, related social problems and ways to create socially Mission Landing, down the road and pastor of Veradale United and encourage others to join with just and inclusive communities, said Kristine Hoover, director from Sacred Heart Mission at Church of Christ in Spokane. them,” Gen added. of the Gonzaga University Institute for Hate Studies (GIHS). Cataldo, Idaho. Those who come will be able To go to the Old Mission From the lessons learned, plans will emerge to help educators, Faith Leaders and Leaders of to read the signs at the boat Landing, take Interstate 90 to researchers, advocates and others better analyze and combat Conscience of Eastern Wash- launch which include warnings Exit 39, go toward Cataldo’s Old hatred in its various manifestations to lead to communities ington and North Idaho (FLLC) such as, “The soils and sedi- Mission State Park and follow being committed to peace, human rights, and justice, she said. have organized Healing of the ments in this area contain harm- The Dredge Road to the end. The event also presentation of Eva Lassman Take Action Earth and Earth Day Vigils ev- ful levels of lead, arsenic and Founded in 2018, the FLLC Against Hate Awards— in honor of the life of Holocaust sur- ery six months since Earth Day other heavy metals. Young chil- works to overcome racism, vivor and educator Eva Lassman—and 2021 Spokane Human 2019. dren and pregnant women are militarism, poverty and ecologi- Rights Award Champions at a Saturday in-person dinner. People attending the vigil will at greatest risk from exposure.” cal devastation. Its goals are the For information, call 313-3665 or visit Gonzaga.edu/ICOHS. hear from individuals affected by People will have a chance to principles set forth by the Poor living on the largest SuperFund participate in a Grieving Circle Peoples Campaign: A National site in the nation, which runs to recognize and express their Call for a Moral Revival. All Whitworth Forum features Madeleine Albright from the Montana border west grief about the Earth’s ecological four barriers affect ecological Madeleine Albright, secretary of state under President Bill into the center of Spokane. A devastation. devastation. Clinton, will be the Whitworth University President’s Leader- SuperFund site is an area so Those attending will learn “The care of our planet crosses ship Forum speaker from 7:30 to 9 a.m., Wednesday, Sept. 29, polluted that it will take large about groups working to over- all cultures, classes, religions at the Spokane Convention Center. amounts of funding to clean and come the effects of pollution and and non-religions,” said Gen. In 2012, she was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom contain it. climate change and be invited “We are one people when we for her work reinforcing America’s Alliances, advocating for “Our hope is that these vigils to join in becoming part of the are united in healing our planet.” democracy and human rights, and promoting American trade, become opportunities to build solution. For information, call 408-593- business, labor and environmental standards abroad. friendships, strengthen our re- “We hope that, by meeting ev- 9556 or email genheywood@ Her recent memoir is Hell and Other Destinations. solve, and put our thoughts and ery six months, different groups gmail.com. For information, visit whitworth.edu/leadershipforum.

WSU has new cooperative campus ministry The Episcopal, Lutheran, Methodist (ELM) Campus Minis- GSSAC recruits speakers on DUI impact try, a new cooperative ministry to students, staff and faculty, is Across the region, there have in the fall of 1992, working with volved crash by a many-time beginning this fall at Washington State University in Pullman. been many impaired driving-re- leaders in traffic safety. repeat impaired driver in August The program will offer dinner and discussions on Wednesday lated crashes resulting in deaths, Since then, many speakers 1986. nights at Simpson United Methodist Church. injuries and trauma for innocent have shared about losing a ca- “No matter what the circum- Linda Young, rector at St. James Episcopal Church in Pull- victims. reer, losing a spouse and raising stance, hearts are broken and man, is coordinating the program. In response, Greater Spo- children on their own, finding lives are shattered by the tragedy Organizers ask congregations in the region to send names kane Substance Abuse Council a brother’s smashed-up truck of a loved one’s life lost,” she of any students who are coming to Pullman to study at WSU. (GSSAC) seeks victims, survi- knowing he could not have said. “Sharing our stories ensures For information, email [email protected]. vors and family members to join survived, or watching a child’s our loved one’s lives make a the Spokane County DUI (Driv- friend be hit while crossing the difference. The Spokane County Arc of Spokane hosts Rock the Runway ing Under the Influence) Victims street. DUI Victims Panel saves lives.” The Arc of Spokane is hosting an in-person evening of en- Panel to “share their stories of Stories make a difference For information, call 922- tertainment, Rock the Runway Fashion Show and Auction, at the lifelong impact from drug/al- through stirring compassion. 8383 or email lthompson@ 5:30 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 16, at the Historic Flight Museum. cohol impaired related crashes.” During COVID with protocols gssac.org. The event features The Arc’s clients in a fashion show, along The panel facilitates oppor- in place, GSSAC is gathering with silent and live auctions, raffles and more. tunities for people to speak to small group DUI Victims Panels For information, email [email protected] or visit arc- people ordered by courts to in their office in the Spokane Saturday, Oct. 2 spokane.org/rocktherunway. learn about the impact and in- Valley three times a week. 44th Annual crease understanding of “how The need for speakers is criti- Mennonite Country PJALS holds annual conference Sept. 16 to 18 the choice to drive impaired cal, because the times and days Ian Haney López, a founder of the Race-Class Academy, is affects others.” for supporting participants in Auction & Sale the keynote speaker for the annual Peace and Justice Action “We are not here to point their compliance vary. for world relief Conference, “No Turning Back: Radical Progress and Collective fingers or place blame,” said Attendees have responded: crafts, quilts, comforters, Liberation” on Sept. 16 to 18 with panels, virtual workshops Amanda Dugger, GSSAC’s com- • “Thank you for not making antiques, pies, kraut runzas, and in in-person celebration. munity outreach coordinator, me feel worse—for encouraging apple cider & apple butter, Ian teaches and writes about race and law at the University a panelist who shares how her me to forgive myself.” food & more of California, Berkeley, focusing on the use of racism as a class life was impacted three times by • “Yes, I will help spread LIBERTY QUARTET weapon in electoral politics. Through a decade of research, he impaired driving crashes. “It is the word about making better Performs in person at 10:30 a.m. has found what racial messages divide voters and what messages about making a different choice choices—no one has to die.” at Menno Mennonite Church unify across those divisions. next time—designating a driver, • “You have saved my life. You 20 miles west of Ritzville (509) 659-0926 The Virtual Conference will be from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., staying rather than driving, and will never see me again.” making a plan before going out.” Linda Thompson, GSSAC’s Info & map: 1376 N. Damon Rd Saturday. There is a panel at 7 p.m., Thursday, and Live Music [email protected] at 7 p.m., Friday. For information, visit pjals.org. GSSAC helped start the Spo- executive director, lost her three- kane County DUI Victims Panel year-old son in an alcohol in- www.mennomennonite.org

Valleyfest is postponed After consulting with the Spokane Regional Health Dis- trict and adapting to assure the health of participants, the 32nd annual Valleyfest was to have Much-used, comprehensive directory been held Friday to Sunday, includes human services, health care, and Sept. 24 to 26 at Mirabeau Point resources for children, families, seniors, veterans, Park and Centerplace, but on Sept. 1, the Board of Directors environment and justice advocates. voted to postpone the event for the second year. Activities had been modified, making provision for sanitation, spacing and requiring masks regardless of vaccination status One in seven children because children under 12 are TO not vaccinated. suffers from hunger There were 84 booths, com- in our communities... ORDER pared with 240 in 2019, said organizer Peggy Doering. “This was not an easy deci- COPIES sion to make, because we know ...BUT THERE IS A WAY it has impact on organizations TO HELP and businesses, but our goal is We are expanding the Bite2Go weekend to keep the community safe in We are expanding the Bite2Go weekend CALL food program into our smaller a time with an increase in cases food program into our smaller (509) 535-4112 • 216-6090 and hospitalizations,” she said. ccommunities.ommunities. IIff yyouou w wouldould l ilikeke mmoreore information visit EMAIL For information, call 922- information visit www.atthecore.online [email protected] 3299 or email peggy@valley- www.atthecore.online fest.org. Page 4 - The Fig Tree - September 2021 Feast World Kitchen connects local 4 to 8 p.m. Tuesdays to Sept 21 community with cuisine and cultures Continued from page 1 nese, Nepalese, Vietnamese, Presbyterian Church in 2006,” Ross conversed with former Thai, Hong Kong, Pakistani, he said. refugees and Daniel Todd, who Ukrainian, Eastern European “I’m passionate about practi- ran Inland Curry and wanted to and more. cal theology or embodied faith, have a commercial kitchen that “I learned to be flexible, have especially because youth grow empowers international cooks. grace and love folks who have in faith as they serve and love “We decided to start Feast different experiences than I their neighbors of different back- World Kitchen to offer inter- do,” said Ross. “I have learned grounds,” said Ross, who began national dishes with a series of how beautiful and different each in high school ministry and did chefs cooking their cuisine and culture is. I have also learned the college-age programs, became playing their music to share their power of food to bring people director of middle school min- cultures,” said Ross, who sold together.” istry 10 years ago. the food truck. Organizers chose the name He involved youth with Now Feast World Kitchen is “Feast” because each culture and former refugees. The college an independent nonprofit renting religion has such a word for their group’s Good Neighbor Team the space from First Presbyterian celebrations. worked through World Relief at below market value. “In a feast, people come to the with the first Syrian family re- Chefs not only share their food table from different backgrounds settled in Spokane in 2014. and culture, but also learn small and experiences. A feast pro- “It was a profound experience business skills. vides a loving space for people working with a family who had The first year, Feast World to engage with each other around struggled so much,” he said. Kitchen was all volunteers. a table,” he said. In 2016, he shifted from youth Now Ross is half-time executive Volunteers—youth to retir- ministry to be director of service director and former Jordanian ees—help at Feast World Kitch- engagement, now “missional” Personal or legal problems? DUI? asylum seeker Maisa Abudayha, en, getting to know families as engagement, involving the con- In need of alcohol and drug treatment? a co-founder, is program director they serve at the restaurant or gregation in service, mission and and organizer. for events. justice work. They started with eight chefs, “Feast embodies anti-racism Ross sees service as both a part cooking once a month and others in action,” said Ross. “Some of of and an extension of worship— cooking one to four times a year. those who founded Feast look the lab work, the hands-on work Some monthly chefs have like me, but were concerned of following Jesus as neighbors started their own businesses, about anti-refugee rhetoric, with the marginalized, poor and applied the skills to other food- because we knew the positive vulnerable. related careers because the res- impact refugees and immigrants “We have clear marching or- taurant business is hard to enter, have. ders from Jesus,” he said. SPARC has highly trained qualified staff to assist you. Ross said. Six have started cater- “We emphasize relationships, In 2018, he and others began For more information and to schedule an appointment, call: ing businesses. meeting around the table and a series of monthly Thursday Feast World Kitchen also em- breaking down barriers as we evening justice forums, inviting 624-5228 ploys refugees as custodians and come to know one another and speakers on social justice issues. or visit us at 1508 W. 6th Ave. dishwashers improve relationships in the He offered a few on Zoom and 8 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. - Monday through Friday Now 65 families have shared city,” he said. hopes to do more when it’s safe Confidential, discreet services. Public funding available food through its take-out to-go “It’s fun seeing people of dif- to gather, because a “big com- menu, patio dining and catering. ferent cultures, especially those ponent along with the content Chefs rent the kitchen for a day who have been isolated, trying to is network and relationships,” Retreats at Spirit Center: to prepare and sell meals. survive in a new place, working Ross said. On Mondays, weekly menus together at Feast with people Several sessions have been on Sept. 14-16 ~ Watercolor Journey II are posted at feastworldkitchen. from around the world. racism and anti-racism, includ- Oct. 8-10 ~ A Sip of Silence org. Patrons order meals, which Ross said the values he ex- ing looking at experiences of the Nov. 5-7 ~ Intro to Centering Prayer are served Wednesdays through presses at Feast World Kitchen Latinx community and refugees Advent (flexible dates) ~ Silence the Sundays, so chefs can buy the and First Presbyterian Church in the Inland Northwest, and Christmas Noise amount of ingredients they need. were instilled growing up Catho- a session on David Swanson’s Patrons can also walk up to the lic in Spokane. Rediscipling the White Church. Flexible dates available for private take out window in the patio and While studying philosophy at A spring 2021 session was on retreats and hosted groups. make orders from 11 a.m. to 2 Western Washington University, “Building the Beloved Com- p.m. or 4 to 8 p.m. he mentored teens at Blaine High munity.” Spirit Center is open “It’s a way some to make School through Young Life, Other topics include Christi- with Covid safety protocols. extra money to pay bills,” Ross so he wanted to do missional- anity and war, and other “sticky Learn more at www.spirit-center.org. said. “Some learn to start small service-based youth ministry topics in society” that have been Spirit Center retreats at the Monastery of businesses. Some find it an av- after graduating and returning at the forefront in recent years, St. Gertrude, Cottonwood, Idaho enue to jobs. Universities and to Spokane. Ross said. 208-962-2000, www.Spirit-Center.org others reach out to us seeking “Having found my spiritual For information, call 279- people with experience cook- path as a Protestant, I began 8388 or email rosscarper@ ing for large groups. Those are a youth ministry job at First gmail.com. less stressful careers than the restaurant business—but immigrants often successfully run restaurants. The chef families are from 35 countries, reflecting the former refugees and immigrants in the community—including Syr- ian, Iraqi, Sudanese, Egyptian, Ethiopian, Kenyan, Senegalese, Cuban, Venezuelan, Colombian, Mexican, Guatemalan, Bhuta- Gonzaga Just Trade fairly-traded Family Haven crafts from Providing forever homes around for in Spokane. the world 73 families inside Opening Fall 2021 Brused Books 235 E. Main www.cceasternwa.org/gfh Pullman, WA 509-334-7898 Weds.-Mon. 11-5 Closed Tuesdays September 2021 - The Fig Tree - Page 5 Spokane Homeless Coalition seeks spaces for homeless during winter By Lillian Piel ee at Catholic Charities’ House about it. Barry encouraged them Over the summer, those who of Charity homeless shelter in to keep working and plan some- work with people who expe- downtown Spokane. Barry vol- thing together. rience homelessness began unteered there. After Jerry left The result was the action planning for winter, said Barry the House of Charity, Barry took group, which is currently advo- Barfield, administrator of the over running the Urban Plunge cating for places for unhooused Spokane Homeless Coalition. about 10 years ago. individuals to stay and store their Soon the focus will be to find On an Urban Plunge, those belongings and find ways to spaces where they can stay the who wish to learn about home- improve their living conditions. night to avoid frostbite and death lessness in Spokane spend time The Spokane Homeless Coali- in the cold of winter, he said. walking around downtown Spo- tion has also been involved with Through the Spokane Home- kane, visiting various facilities, Homeless Connect, a day when less Coalition, which informs, meeting people and hearing their agencies and groups that serve connects and networks around stories. people experiencing homeless- homelessness, Barry was work- “Human contact had the ness gather in one location down- ing in the summer to find spaces most impact,” he said. town to provide services, such as where those needing shelter can Although the Urban Plunge haircuts, clothing, food, housing stay the night during the winter. stopped when the pandemic resources and unemployment. He wants to partner with faith hit, Barry said he will revive it Depending COVID-19, the communities to use spaces they Barry Barfield coordinated Spokane Homeless Coalition this fall. event will resume on Jan. 27, have to provide a safe place for Raised Catholic, Barry said 2022, at the Convention Center. homeless people to stay at night. “She passed that on to me. As paratory School. He continued his faith and values influence The coalition provides many “I would love it if that issue long as I can remember, I’ve just his interest in homelessness, who he is and why he does the ways for people in faith groups could be pressed right now so we had both an interest in and heart staying up to date on what was work he does. and other organizations to learn could put all the pieces in place for those concerns,” Barry said. happening in the community. He believes the gospel says more about the lives of homeless to keep homeless people from His work with people expe- Barry had a bus driver’s license Jesus spent a lot of time with people and to be inspired to ac- dying next winter,” said Barry, riencing homelessness began in and took students to visit shelters those on the margins, and that tion. Barry invites faith groups inviting faith groups and other 1976, when he was teaching at a for people experiencing home- this is what Jesus would want or other organizations to contact organizations to contact him to Catholic high school in Los An- lessness or places that help de- him to do. His mother raised him him or the Spokane Homeless explore options and plan ahead. geles where a nun ran a commu- velopmentally disabled children. to have a heart for others tied in Coalition to explore options. For most of his life, Barry has nity outreach center for undocu- “I would try and get them with his Catholic faith, he said. For information, call 999-1200, been interested in social justice mented immigrants and homeless into the community to see social Barry said that the Spokane email [email protected] causes, especially the issue of people. He started volunteering at justice stuff actually happening,” Homeless Coalition recently or visit spokanehc.com. homelessness. the shelter, loved it and ended up he said. formed an action group. After In addition to being an admin- on the center’s board. About 15 years ago, he began its virtual meeting in March, the istrator at Spokane Homeless When he first moved to Spo- taking part in the Spokane Urban group talked about a recent po- Coalition, he works part-time kane, Barry taught social justice Plunge, which was previously lice sweep of a homeless camp. at Gonzaga Preparatory School, themed classes at Gonzaga Pre- run by Jerry Schwab, an employ- They decided to do something where he helps students find volunteer service placements in is proud the community. World Relief seeks funds, volunteers, advocates Barry moved to Spokane to support ery day, World Relief social me- in mid-September. Staff and visi- about 30 years ago, and about Continued from page 1 the local five years ago he began going • A one-time or recurring gift dia will keep people informed. tors are required to wear masks. to Spokane Homeless Coalition will support refugee and immi- “Finally, for people of faith, I For information, call 484- journalism of meetings to find out what they grant families fleeing violence, ask for prayer for me and others 9829 or visit https://worldrelief. The Fig Tree were doing and how he could providing food, housing, trans- who are stretching our normal org/spokane. help. portation and basic needs so they capacities to help with this cri- A year and a half ago, the can rebuild their lives. sis,” he said. “Most importantly, administrator position opened • Volunteers are needed to help pray for Afghans and others, in- up on the coalition’s leadership with every step of resettlement, cluding Haitians, who are facing team, and Barry volunteered. whether meeting families at the desperate situations.” As administrator, he helps with airport or moving furniture into Spokane’s World Relief office email lists, responding to emails apartments. For information, reopened to the public in July and maintaining the website. email Emily Hughes at ehu- after being closed since the state He also helps run the group’s [email protected]. entered lockdown in response to monthly Zoom meeting. • While the evacuation efforts COVID-19 in March 2020. The leadership team decides have been happening, there is While staff continued work what they think coalition mem- need to email members of Con- in a limited capacity, there were bers would want to learn about gress to urge them to include logistical problems for staff and and discuss, then finds topics and all Afghans and their families clients. Now they can meet in speakers they believe members threatened by the Taliban. the office, which is open from 9 would benefit from. Because the situation in Af- a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday, Tuesday, Monthly public meetings are ghanistan is complicated with Wednesday and Friday. from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. on first new developments emerging ev- The Friendship Center opens Thursdays at the Gathering House, 733 W. Garland. Meeting attendance is 60 to 100 people each time, he said. Justice & Equity: Barry’s interest in social YOU’RE INVITED TO justice causes began in his child- Challenging Hate hood. After his father died when and Inspiring Hope Barry was one year old, he was Transitions raised by his mother, who had Join us for Gonzaga’s a heart for those living on the margins of society. Sixth International Conference on Hate Studies, Nov 4-6, 2021 People held virtually this year Join us for presentations, workshops Who Care and discussions from local, national, and FUNDRAISER international experts and organizations, including regional Human Rights groups, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2021 the Western States Center, Asian Americans The Centennial Hotel Advancing Justice-Los Angeles, the University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon’s Celebrating 30 years of community Collaboratory Against Hate, and the University of Copenhagen, among others. at Women’s Hearth Registration is open at WWW.HELP4WOMEN.ORG/PWC2021 www.gonzaga.edu/icohs Page 6 - The Fig Tree - September 2021 Law firm addresses barriers people face in the justice system Continued from page 1 meet clients where they are. Often continuing there 13 years before clients where they are, listen- out of the trauma people suffer, going to the Center for Justice. ing, treating them with respect, greatness comes,” said Virla who Founder Carl Maxey influ- understanding their experience, attributes her success to faith. enced the practice. She collabo- and protecting them. “I believe in Jesus Christ and rates with his sons and grandsons COVID precautions make it rely on my faith for everything,” on a Spokane County systemic difficult to serve clients, because said Virla a member of the racism work group. some “face-to-face, personal Church of Berachah. “With young attorneys and interaction is required, listening Cam’s journey began when young people calling for change, with no judgement as people tell her parents named her for her there is hope,” Cam said. their stories so we engage with grandmother, Camerina, who “Young people recognize we all them as partners,” Cam said. was born in Mexico during the have a responsibility. We didn’t Few of their clients have tech- 1907 revolution, experienced create the systems, but see the nology, limiting their ability to political upheaval, witnessed damage they can do. As profes- work online. injustice and decided to come to sionals working in the system, we The Way to Justice partners this country,” Cam said. are responsible to address issues with Pioneer Counseling Servic- “She had a hard life there and and make changes,” said Cam. es at the Emerson Clinic, where here, but was a living saint, driv- Realizing they cannot work clients are referred by therapeu- en by faith,” said Cam, telling alone, The Way to Justice col- tic courts. They work with clinic of her grandmother’s influence. laborates and partners on com- staff to offer clients housing and As a child, Cam attended St. mon efforts. employment resources. Aloysius in Spokane and St. Rose Cam and Virla invite dona- Many cases involve vacating of Lima in Cheney. She said her tions and seek volunteers to convictions, which means with- spirituality was influenced by help them expand their efforts, drawing a guilty plea so a case Virla Spencer and Camerina Zorrozua going to a Saturday evening In- and hire another attorney, an is dismissed,. dian mass at St. Aloysius, led by outreach coordinator and interns. The Feb. 25 State Supreme tomatically, but it does not wipe college on time, and then to re- Indigenous people. For information, call 822- Court ruled that convictions for away debt. turn to the daycare before they “I have a personal relationship 7514 or email cam@thewayto- “simple personal possession They help clients with first-, call Child Protective Services. with our Creator. Every day, I justice.com. of a controlled substance” was second- and third-degree suspen- While she was considering see a spark of the Holy Spirit in unconstitutional, but did not sions that happen because many working with AmeriCorps Vista, clients,” she said. “Because we automatically vacate the convic- risk driving on a suspended a caseworker told her, “Ameri- are called to do work that isn’t Watch tions of thousands. license, Virla said. For example, Corps Vista is a joke, not a real done yet, we chose the name The Cam helps vacate convictions low-income people in rural areas job. Your food stamps and TANF Way to Justice.” our live and reduce sentences for defen- with no buses or in cities with are running out. After 60 months, Her social worker/therapist stream dants who ask for relief. She also limited bus connections need what are you going to do?” mother and foster children sib- requests refunds for fines people to take a child to childcare and Virla chose to do AmeriCorps lings introduced her to dynamics Sunday Service 11 a.m. online at paid. The Office of Civil Legal then go to work in another area Vista and “use it to turn over of mental health and to seeing www.uuspokane.org Aid funds that work. of town. They also need to go every rock.” everyone’s humanity. “We have to educate the pub- to grocery stores or doctor’s ap- She then called a WorkSource Her parents supported her We are an LGBTQ welcoming lic on this decision,” Cam said. pointment. So they drive. counselor with whom she had a legal studies and career. As a liberal religious congregation Data shows that, while people Virla’s journey led her to this good relationship. The counselor Gonzaga Law School intern, she All are welcome of color are no more likely to use work. She raised her children on said, “I believe in you. You’ve worked at Maxey Law Office, 4340 W Whistalks Way substances, they are dispropor- TANF, lived in section 8 hous- come so far. You will get through tionately convicted, Cam said. ing and used food stamps. She this.” CELEBRATING The Way to Justice also va- learned “to keep going no matter That gave Virla her push. With cates records. For city or county what,” she said. AmeriCorps Vista, she volun- misdemeanors, it takes three “As a black woman, I expe- teered at the Center for Justice years to clear a record. For felo- rienced discrimination in the and worked her way up from nies, depending on the class, it education, employment, housing volunteering, to part-time then takes five to 10 years, she said. and criminal justice systems. I full-time as outreach coordina- “By the time clients come, have been homeless, a single tor, then as assistant director of We are so they have had years of crime-free mother raising seven children driver relicensing, running that YEARS thankful for the lives. They are entitled to relief. and having nowhere to go,” program and now having her community support. It helps them access better em- Virla said. own organization. OF SERVICE ployment, housing and education As a victim of domestic vio- “My experiences allow me to 509-536-1084 ~ www.4mission.org ~ 1906 E. Mission ~ Spokane opportunities,” Cam said. lence, she can relate to clients The Way to Justice’s reli- who experience it. She knows censing program helps people what it’s like to choose between whose drivers’ licenses were paying the light bill or feeding suspended for unpaid fines. A the family. She knows what it’s new law means anyone with a like to catch a bus at 5 a.m. to non-criminal moving violation drop her children at daycare and may get their licenses back au- catch a bus to be at community

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erPass om//Summ Transiit..co SpokaneT September 2021 - The Fig Tree - Page 7 Pullman parish’s Social Justice Ministry serves in multiple ways At Sacred Heart Catholic Francis’ encyclical, “Laudato si: programs. Sacred Heart has been Parish in Pullman, parishioners From top left to right, Caring for Our Common Home” active for seven years in Family are committed to serve people Francy Pavlas Bose, Tim to the parish. Through Zoom Promise of the Palouse, an out- through social justice action— Paulitz, Bill Engels, Bonita meetings, participants learn about reach of the Parish Council with housing, hunger and environ- Lawhead and Kat Harris. and commit to addressing climate homeless families. In Pullman mental projects, and advocacy. change and creation care as indi- and Moscow, 13 core churches Five members of the parish’s viduals and as a parish. rotated housing families in their Social Justice Ministry—Bill “Move Out, Pitch In” is a facilities four times a year and Engels, Kat Harris, Francy Pav- spring project, coordinated by the 13 support churches provided las Bose, Tim Paulitz and Bonita university with many churches meals in pre-COVID times. Now Lawhead—recently told of their and community groups. homeless families stay in hotels motivations and described some When students leave campus, while Family Promise helps of the projects. they throw away what they can’t people find jobs, put their lives “We use ‘ministry’ not ‘com- take, so churches and a thrift shop together and find housing. mittee’ because a ministry is set up bins in residence halls and The Social Justice Ministry about doing God’s justice work,” put up signs, “Don’t throw things connects with the Community Francy clarified. “A ministry away. Put them in the bin in the Action Center (CAC), which of- serves others,” Kat said. lobby.” Students put in food, fers emergency and low-income The Social Justice Ministry clothing, dishes, bedding, toast- housing, giving bus tickets to began a year after Francy came to a new perspective,” Kat said. and to teaching in Morocco and ers, microwaves, other appliances Spokane shelters. Sojourners Pullman in 1993. In 1994, she at- Her husband grew up in a Turkey. As an adjunct professor and storage bins. Alliance in Moscow has an tended the Catholic Conference in farm village, where people had at the Department of Plant Pa- Groups of 15 to 20 Sacred emergency shelter. Habitat of the Spokane where she learned about little or no interaction with white thology at WSU, he works with Heart volunteers in teams of two Palouse builds one house a year. the “Moving Faith into Action” people. His family hand-washed international graduate students. or three go to the halls twice a For hunger, there are two food program. In Pullman, she invited their clothes. They had running Bonita, who grew up in South day to load items into cars and banks—one at the CAC and one 12 members of Sacred Heart to water, while few others did. Dakota, moved to Vancouver and pickup trucks. They take items to at Pullman Child Welfare. St. participate in a six-week program “Seeing people live in survival then to Tekoa, north of Pullman, Sacred Heart’s basement to sort to James Episcopal, Community to move faith into action. mode, I am no longer quick to where she lived 40 years. She distribute to individuals in need Congregational United Church “I was Catholic all my life but judge. We need grace to see worked with The Standard- through agencies in Pullman, of Christ and the campus have had not learned about the social others where they are. Life is Register weekly newspaper and Moscow and Spokane. Several set up and stock little food justice teachings,” she said. complex,” Kat said. “Social jus- became editor. For five years, other churches and groups do that pantries. Sacred Heart’s Parish Tim and Bill were inspired tice is walking the talk of faith. she worked with The Inland in other residence halls. Council is considering having to do peace and justice work by The pandemic led me to look Catholic Register, interviewing “It saves 50,000 pounds from one. the 36-week Just Faith Program, for the good,” she said. “Now priests, visiting parishes and the landfill,” Francy said. Kat’s outreach includes orga- Tim in 2001 after moving to we are discussing racial justice. writing on the many ways people Another ecology project is nizing people to send cards to iso- Pullman in 2000, and Bill at St. Racism is an issue. We need to brings Jesus’ love into the world. collecting clear plastic bags for lated residents in care facilities. Joseph’s in Seattle. talk about it and act.” Bonita studied to be a sub- Trex, a recycling company that Last fall, Bonita was in a group Transformative experiences Tim also has international stance abuse counselor and makes railings and decking. praying for civility. It did a ser- abroad were another common ties. He came to Pullman as a began working in 2005 with a Sacred Heart members bring vice with music and scripture on factor for them. wheat disease researcher with the counseling agency in Pullman, bags to the church, which takes Jesus’ call to love God and love Born in Seattle, Bill lived U.S. Department of Agriculture, 13 years before moving there the bags to Safeway in Pullman. neighbors, bringing awareness in Europe and around the U.S. Agricultural Research Service, in 2018. If they recycle 500 pounds that “we are all one and need to be when his father was in the Army. after teaching 10 years at McGill “Jesus calls us to the Gospel in six months, Trex gives them civil to those who are different.” He studied English literature at University in Quebec. of loving our neighbor as our- a bench. The church has four About 12 parishioners at- the University of Arkansas and For him, social justice is inter- selves. Social justice is seeing benches and will donate future tended the 2021 Eastern Wash- did graduate studies at St. Louis twined with his faith and keeps children fed and having shoes, benches to care facilities. ington Legislative Conference University. him involved in the church. He and there being equal opportu- Francy urges other churches to in January on Zoom, learning After earning his doctorate appreciates that Sacred Heart’s nity for people of all skin colors join them, “because it’s better to about issues before the state in 1998, Bill taught mostly in pastor, Fr. Steve Dublinski, and dispositions,” Bonita said. recycle plastic than have it end legislature. Bill and Francy co- Asia: four years in Mongolia, encourages parishioners to talk For Bill, Social Justice Min- up in the ocean.” ordinate an action alert network three in South Korea and six about issues and then act. istry is a way to put his faith When Pullman Disposal Ser- for peace and justice advocacy at a Maryknoll mission school “The social justice aspect of into action in a group context. vice stopped accepting glass a at Sacred Heart. in Bangladesh. He also served Jesus’ message ties to what we Knowing he is accountable to few years ago, the Social Justice They email or text parishioners as principal of an elementary do every day,” he said. “My so- a group means he has deadlines Ministry began collecting glass about actions on the death penal- school he helped start in Bangla- cial justice work makes my faith and the support of a group with at the church and taking it to ty, environment and other issues. desh. In 2014, he came to teach concrete rather than cerebral.” similar goals. Whitman County Transfer, which For information, call 332-5114 at Washington State University His research led him to sabbati- Through the ministry, Francy, grinds it for road construction. or email francy@pavlasbose. (WSU). His wife, who is from cals in Switzerland and Australia, Tim and Bill seek to bring Pope Tim described the housing com. Mongolia, is now a U.S. citizen. Kat, who experienced little diversity growing up in Wyo- ming, did not have an interest in social justice until moving in 2016 from Nebraska to Pullman. After graduating in accounting in 2007 from the University of Wyoming, she went from being a CPA to teaching accounting. Catholic all her life, she en- countered other perspectives because her husband is Jamaican and the grandson of a Baptist deacon. Her interest in social justice grew as she began to see the world through another lens after visiting his family. “As a minority for two weeks, I gained

Protecting the Wild Heart of Spokane

For information, maps, nature walks go to DishmanHills.org Page 8 - The Fig Tree - September 2021 Catholic Charities opens more permanent supportive housing units Over the summer, Catholic and mental health counseling, In addition, on Aug. 2, a sized rooms and an onsite case challenged unconstitutional Charities began efforts to ex- and assistance in locating and Federal District Court Judge manager to help residents obtain delays in competency evalua- pand housing with services to maintaining employment. awarded a $6,877,823 grant treatment and resources to help tions and restoration services for residents—opening a permanent Ed and Beatriz assisted poor to Frontier Behavioral Health them live productive lives. people detained in jails. Since supportive housing complex and and vulnerable people in Eastern (FBH), Catholic Charities East- CCEW will provide 24 studio the settlement, the state has been partnering to share a grant to Washington for many years. ern Washington (CCEW) and and one-bedroom units as part disbursing more than $80 million provide similar housing. Schweitzer Haven is Catholic Pioneer Human Services (Pio- of a larger affordable housing in contempt sanctions to fund On July 30, Catholic Charities Charities’ 15th tax-credit prop- neer) to provide housing and community near Spokane Falls community diversion programs opened a 50-unit permanent sup- erty completed since 2010, now behavioral healthcare services Community College, funded by statewide. portive housing complex named offering more than 700 units of to at-risk adults. long-term contracts for project- The housing grant is part of for Beatriz and Ed Schweitzer of housing in Eastern Washington As the lead, FBH will ensure based rental assistance. Phase IV of the Trueblood Diver- Schweitzer Engineering Labo- for individuals and families ex- tenants meet eligibility require- Case managers will assist sion Plan. A total of $22 million ratories. periencing homelessness. ments of the grant. CCEW and residents with rental obligations, in housing grants was awarded It combines affordable hous- Later this year, in partner- Pioneer, which provide perma- therapy resources, transporta- throughout the state. ing assistance with support ser- ship with Gonzaga Preparatory nent supportive housing, will tion, legal assistance and other For information, call 838- vices to address needs of people School and Gonzaga University, manage and staff apartment units services. 4651 or email csavalli@fbhwa. exiting chronic homelessness, Catholic Charities will open with onsite case managers and Funding for the grant comes org, call 206-766-7034 or email helping them build independent Gonzaga Family Haven, a 73 other resources. from the 2018 settlement of [email protected], living and tenant skills with case unit affordable housing complex Pioneer provides 10-single- Trueblood vs. Department of So- call 455-3039 or email sarah. management, substance abuse for families. room occupancy units or family- cial and Health Services, which [email protected]. September 2021 - The Fig Tree - Page 9

At the Core seeks churches, businesses • Household Dan the Moving to feed region’s 18,000 hungry children • Piano Tuning Piano Man & Repair t the Core and Second • Piano Moving Harvest have recruited is now... & Storage A120 congregations, businesses and family groups as sup- Licensed & 509.922.1085 Free in-home porters for the Bite2Go program Insured www.DanTheMovingManWA.com estimates that provides weekend meals for more than 4,500 hungry Spokane area students in 73 elementary and 35 middle and high schools. Knowing that 18,000 school children in Eastern Washington and North Idaho communities Tom Stevenson and Brenna Sloan are recruiting more face weekend hunger, At the churches, businesses and family groups to adopt schools. Core, which started seven years ago, is ready to recruit more Tom Stevenson, who retired At high schools, eligible stu- churches, businesses and family from the Moss Adams CPA firm dents use their student number to groups outside Spokane to feed in 2011 after 35 years. order food from an online menu. hungry children over weekends. When Tom was chair of the They select a teacher from whom Chris and Brenna Sloan, Spokane County United Way they will pick up their order. who were active in Timberview board in 2013, he went on his Students in the schools’ DECA Church in North Spokane, start- own nickel to Amarillo, Texas, (business) class, leadership class ed the program in 2014 when to learn about a poverty program. or other group pack the food and the church reached out to Mead- “It didn’t fit Spokane, but I take it to the teachers. owridge Elementary School met Dyron Howell who ran a “It makes a difference that and asked how they could “be a SNACK PAK 4 KIDS program. children are fed over the week- blessing to the community.” That program inspired me to end and they do not return to “We asked Debbie Wiechert, think about such a program for school Mondays hungry and un- the counselor, who said the Spokane,” he said. able to focus in class,” Tom said. school had a United Way grant On returning, he met with then Last year, they were concerned to help them feed children over Spokane school superintendent the program would not work weekends,” said Brenna, pro- Shelly Redinger, who said Spo- because children were not in gram associate for At the Core. kane needed such a program. She school. However, many church- “She asked if we would help referred him to the Sloans to learn es, businesses and teachers with logistics of picking up what they had been doing for two delivered Bite2Go food directly food from Second Harvest and years in the Mead School District. to children and their families at delivering it to schools. He joined them and together their homes. “We enthusiastically said ‘yes’ they helped nearly 120 churches, Deliveries dropped from 5,000 to helping provide weekend food businesses and family groups to 4,500—3,500 in elementary for 15 children on free breakfast adopt a school. schools and 1,000 in middle and and lunch,” she said. As the Bite2Go feeding pro- high schools. After a year, the grant ex- gram grew, Chris began working “Realizing we were feed- pired and the counselor said the full time at Second Harvest. ing 20 percent of children on school was unable to continue At the Core formed as a non- free meals in Spokane and that the program. profit with Tom as volunteer Second Harvest covers Eastern By then church members and board chair, Brenna as volunteer, Washington and North Idaho, the youth group wanted to con- Catherine Klingel as program we figured there were 18,000 tinue doing it. So individuals and coordinator and a Gonzaga children food insecure in the families in the church sponsored intern. whole region—another 13,000,” children for the next school year. “Our role is to recruit, inspire Tom said. “We loved being able to make and maintain adoptive organiza- “So we want more people to an impact on our community tions—businesses, churches and know about Bite2Go in outlying We sponsored 25 children and it nonprofits—that adopt a school in and rural areas,” he said. “We are grew from there,” said Brenna, their neighborhood,” Brenna said. looking for community cham- who graduated with Chris from “We are coaches for those pions who will help us start the Shadle Park High School. organizations,” Tom said. “We program in their communities.” Rockwood South Hill: She started studies in Belling- make it easy for a group to adopt In October, At the Core 2903 E. 25th Ave. ham and Chris in Walla Walla. a school and start the program. is offering opportunities for 509-536-6650 Both finished at Eastern Wash- Then we support them while they people to visit Second Harvest, a ington University in 1997, she successfully serve a school with school and meet with an adoptive Rockwood at Whitworth in teaching and he in marketing. little turnover in groups.” church or business to see if the 10331 N. Mayberry Dr. Because her family helped The organizations raise funds, program might be a good fit for 509-466-0411 “plant” Timberview in 1992, pick up food, deliver it and wrap their communities. www.rockwoodretirement.org they attended there. The senior their arms around the school, of- “We have a wonderful model. pastor encouraged Chris to do fering mentoring and tutoring to Kids should not be going to independent • assisted • skilled nursing • memory care online studies with Northwest students, too. school hungry on Mondays,” Nazarene University in 1999 Volunteers from churches and Tom said. “There are many and 2000 and mentored him to businesses are in the schools people like me who are retired be ordained an elder. each week to deliver the food and seeking something to do. We After the program was going and often do more. are ready to coach more groups for a while, Chris talked to pastor One church does an “Un- to start adopting schools.” colleagues in North Spokane en- die Sunday,” collecting socks, For information, email tom couraging them to adopt a local underwear and sweatpants for [email protected] or visit school and feed children. children they sponsored. atthecore.online. Within two years, four churches adopted local schools. After three years, they met

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Editorial Reflections People of faith offer glimmer of hope against the bad news any day With a summer of hurricanes and heat, denominations to see their responses. Jesus Christ. umc.org episcopalchurch.org tornados and typhoons, fires and floods, Just looking at their opening pages, we • With our hands, we do God’s work of • In Haiti, Week of Compassion part- COVID and climate change, new refugees found hope: restoring and reconciling communities in ners have already deployed volunteers to and new leaders, many seek to overcome • “Action and advocacy are two ways, Jesus Christ’s name throughout the world. help with rescue operations and assess the feeling overwhelmed by finding ways in addition to prayer, that people in the We live in many different communities, damage. They are working to meet imme- to help those who have suffered and are United Church of Christ (UCC) can as- span all ages, cultures and races and bring diate needs. Our partners are also planning still suffering. sist the people of Afghanistan. National to this church unique life experiences and for longer term response, including con- Local, state/regional, national and officers are urging people of faith to join perspectives. Discover what God is call- struction; community-based psychosocial global faith communities offer channels their call for a swift response to the hu- ing you to do in life. elca.org support and trauma recovery; reconstruc- for responding with opportunities to do- manitarian crisis in Afghanistan. ucc.org • Amid an alarming rise in antisemitic tion of damaged water infrastructure, and nate, volunteer, pray and advocate. • One Great Hour of Sharing Presby- rhetoric and violence, the Union for Re- livelihood support. disciples.org One might be easily discouraged by the terian Disaster Assistance has a means form Judaism and the Anti-Defamation • “We welcome the USDA’s update to list of tragedies and by the self-centered to donate online to Haiti for earthquake League will join together in a multifaceted the Thrifty Food Plan,on needs of families focus of many who push their liberty over relief. pcusa.org partnership to provide Reform congrega- and individuals who are food insecure. the life, health and wellbeing of the com- • Together, United Methodists do tions with the tools needed to address The increase in SNAP benefits will be munity, but seeing the responses of the remarkable ministry around the world, antisemitism in their communities. urj.org a meaningful improvement in the lives faith and nonprofit communities in face caring for survivors of earthquakes and • Episcopal Migration Ministries, the of millions. U.S. Catholic bishops have of these events, one can be heartened and storms; investing, long term, in vulnerable refugee resettlement and migration min- repeatedly called for strengthening and even hopeful. communities; implementing effective so- istry of The Episcopal Church, is currently improving SNAP ... to help people meet Many media focus on conflicts, the lutions to diseases like malaria; equipping working in partnership with the U.S. gov- their essential needs.” usccb.org unusual and the violence of weather and the next generation through training and ernment to assist our Afghan allies with These are just a hopeful sample of people. Discouraged by news, this editor education to lead the church and society. resettlement and direct services through people putting their faith into action. visited the websites of several national In all of this, we share the good news of a network of 12 affiliates across the U.S. Mary Stamp - Editor Pacific Islanders hope everyone will come together to protect the Earth Climate change devastates not only the in temperature and weather. In 2016, Fiji witnessed one of the stron- The Pacific Islands are not only vulner- Pacific Islands but also the whole world. Climate change has led to the rising of gest recorded tropical storms, Tropical able to climate change but also vulner- As a Pacific Islander from the small the sea level and other natural disasters in Cyclone Winston, with winds reaching up able to the global economy. With limited islands of Tonga, climate change is one of the Pacific Islands. These include cyclone, to 178 miles an hour, that left a wake of economic resources, when any natural the most threatening issues that the Pacific hurricane, drought, warming of the sea devastation and destruction in the islands. disaster hits, it takes longer to recover. region is facing now. temperature and floods. Winston killed 44 people and left more However, we have been experiencing The Pacific Islands and their inhabit- In 1990, Cyclone Ofa hit Samoa and than 40,000 people homeless. the effects of climate change in the heat ants are at the front line and most of flooded many low-lying coastal regions. The El Nino drought of 2016 brought wave, drought and huge forest fires here their people are the most vulnerable to In 1997, Cyclone Gavin hit Fiji and famine and illness to hundreds of thou- in the Pacific Northwest and in California, its effects. breached the sea wall with a storm that hit sands of people in Papua New Guinea. flooding in the Northeast and cyclones. The Pacific Island region has already the north coast of Vanua Levu and flooded The low-lying atoll states of Kiribati, Those experiences mean that climate experienced the effects of climate change the provincial capital of Lambasa. Tuvalu and the Marshall Islands are al- change, although greatly affecting the and the rise of the sea level. For example, In 2009, a major earthquake of 8.1 led ready at the frontline of climate change. small islands of the Pacific Ocean, also some islands in the Solomon Islands are to a tsunami striking Samoa, including The rising of the sea level and the sea affects people here in the United States. already starting to disappear. American Samoa and Tonga and wiping temperature mean that more cyclones Pacific Islanders know that they con- The small island of Kiribati is already out many houses, killing more than 189 will happen, and they are likely to be tribute less to climate change, but there starting to be inundated with sea water. people and injuring hundreds. more intense. is no time to point fingers. The loss of an island to Pacific Islanders is In 2014, Cyclone Heta hit the Island When the sea is warmer, fish will move There is only time to come together to to lose our identity, culture and livelihood. of Niue and devastated most of the infra- into deeper waters, which means only the protect the whole world. Therefore, it is Pacific Islanders are beginning to look structure of this little island. countries with resources are able to fish. all our call now for stewardship and care outside their islands for places to migrate In 2015, Tropical Cyclone Pam with As most of the Pacific Islands depend for this Earth that we are all part of. to places, like the United States, New winds that reached up to 174 miles per heavily on the ocean for both food and Ikani Fakasiieiki Zealand and Australia, but those places, hour devastated the Island of Vanuatu economy, now they will rely on bigger Guest Editorial too, are not immune from harsh changes leading to the death of 16 people. islands for that purpose.

Letters to the Editor Sounding Board Commentaries

Faith leaders challenge pressure on local school board Several area school boards face similar issues, shifted to online World faith webinar reflects on impact of WCC leader Faith Leaders and Leaders of history factually and honestly. Teachers continued from page 2 Conscience of Eastern Washington and can tell the truth about when our coun- Religion News North Idaho continue to be concerned try lived up to our ideals of liberty and from Around the World about the pressure the Central Valley justice for all and when we have fallen • Annegreth Schilling, researcher in ecumenical and intercultural theology, School District Board of Directors has short. We can speak truthfully about our met Philip when he was 85 and still bore the enthusiasm and hope of youth. been receiving from people who are push- historic harms to Indigenous people, “His biography shows the interdependence of the Global North and South,” ing misinformed agendas. Blacks, Latinx, differently abled people, she said. “His time as general secretary was a period of conflict of world views. We fully support the board in remaining women, and LGBTQ+ people. We can He was an idealist, but not naive, calling churches to see the local task within grounded in measurable facts not fear. also celebrate their amazing contributions the total vision.” We fully support the board in following to our American Dream. Webinar participants noted that the challenge of racism, which Philip worked Washington Department of Health COVID Please, continue to let verifiable facts to stamp out, continues. recommendations, and being willing to be your guide. Continue protecting the • Boudewijn Sjollema, the first director of the WCC’s Program to Combat adjust your response when there is new sci- health and safety of the students as well Racism, said Philip was his mentor in the past and still is in spirit, inspiring him entific information. It is a hallmark of edu- as the teachers and staff. Continue to use to listen to what the oppressed themselves say about their situation. cation that we make new decisions when the best factual information available and Some powerful churches in the West feared that would cost them some of we have additional factual information. when there is new factual information, their power, he said. The Program to Combat Racism was primarily a program We fully support the board in following make new responsible changes. to combat racism within churches, which he said could only speak to the world the Office of Superintendent of Public Sincerely. faithfully if they put their own homes in order. Instruction (OSPI) guidelines and offering Rev. Gen Heywood, Convener of Faith People said Philip’s wisdom gave them direction and hope. students medically accurate sexual health Leaders and Leaders of Conscience of • Konrad Raiser, WCC general secretary from 1993 to 2003, told of Philip’s education. The fear around this issue has Eastern Washington and North Idaho belief in a dialogue of cultures. missed the reality that our children are on Rev. Andy CastroLang, Rev. Debra At the end of a 1984 “Cultures in Dialogue” symposium, Philip said: “I contain the internet and getting information that L. Conklin UMC, Rev. Rick Matters, in my own self many cultures from Mongolian to Africa with Europe in between. is not age appropriate or even factual. In April May, Patrick T. McCormick, Sr. I contain within my own self the oppressed and the oppressors, white and black contrast, age appropriate, scientifically Pat Millen, OSF, Sisters of St. Francis of and yellow. Therefore this dialogue of cultures has been going on all my life.” based education on their relationships Philadelphia, Pam Silverstein MD, Quan • Bärbel said her husband, who always maintained hope, said the ecumenical and their rights to their own bodies is a Yin, Lynne H. Williams MD, of Spokane movement should be about: “Only connect.” Sometimes connections bore fruit, necessary counter measure. William Aal, Joan Broeckling of One sometimes not, she added, but he would also say there was always room for We fully support the board in comply- Peace Many Paths, Lynne deLaubenfels improvement in the ecumenical movement. ing with the OSPI standards related to and Charity Doyl, Spokane Valley equality. Following Washington state law Joan Berkowitz, Petra Hoy, Greenacres The Fig Tree includes this story because editor Mary Stamp and development/ means that there is to be no discrimination Linda Ball, Liberty Lake editorial associate Marijke Fakasiieiki met and conversed with Philip Potter at in public schools. Rev. Jeannette Solimine, UCC, Colfax WCC assemblies. He inspired their ecumenical/interfaith work and commitment. We fully support the board in teaching Rev. Kaye Hult, Post Falls September 2021 - The Fig Tree - Page 11 S C & H Foreign Auto Repair Calendar of Events E. 620 North Foothills Dr. Spokane, WA 99207 SCOTT M. CUSHMAN 487-9683 OR 484-5221 Aug 30-Sept 12 • “Celebrate Curiosity” Exhibit, The Liberation,” virtual and in person, keynote Kress Gallery, River Park Square 3rd Level, speaker Ian Haney López, a founder of the Faith Leaders and Leaders of Conscience Art Race-Class Academy, pjals.org FREE ‘In Person’ After Contest entries, 456-3413 Sept 16-19 • 50th Odessa Deutchesfest, Hwy 21 & Hwy Sept 2 • Heal House Wall Raising, Habitat for 28, deutchesfest.com School Projects Humanity and WSU School of Design, 2 p.m., Sept 17, 18, 23, 24, 25 • Shakespeare in the Park, Visit IfYouCouldSaveJustOne.org events.wsu.edu Riverfront Park, 507 N. Howard St., 6:30 4421 N Nevada - Spokane WA 99207 • Moscow First Thursday, 5 to 8 p.m. facebook. p.m. to 9 p.m., 625-6600, myspokanecity. Accommodates youth with court orders or special needs com/moscowfirstthursday org/riverfrontspokane/calendar/2021/09/25/ • Peace and Justice Action Committee, online, Shakespeare-in-the-park 5:30 p.m.,[email protected] Sept 18 • Spokane River Clean-up, Lands Council, • Family to Family Group, NAMI Spokane, 6:30 Highbridge Park, Riverside Ave. and A St., 10 MAYA EARTH COFFEE to 8 p.m., namispokane.org a.m. to 12 p.m., 209-2851, landscouncil.org/ Earth friendly gourmet blend Sept 3 • First Friday, 5 to 8 p.m. downtownspokane. events/Spokane-river-clean-up Shade Grown Indigenous Coffee org/first-Friday, firstfridayspokane.org • Spokatopia, Camp Sekani, 67070 E. Upriver • First Fridays at Pend Oreille Arts Council Dr., 822-0123, spokatopia.com Purchase by text, email or online Gallery, 110 Main, Sandpoint, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Sept 18-19 • Spokane Herbal Faire, West Central [email protected] 208-263-6139, artsinsandpoint.org Episcopal Mission, 1832 W. Dean Ave., 998- www.mayaearthcoffee.com • Fox Theater 90th Birthday Open House 4674, spokaneherbalfaire.org Celebration, Martin Woldson Theater, 1011 W. Sept 19 • Hands Across the Falls, Community-Minded 509-768-3193 Sprague Ave., 12 to 4 p.m., 624-1200 Enterprises, Riverfront Park, 507 N. Howard, • 3 Minute Mic, First Friday Poetry Open 1 to 4 p.m., 960-8529, community-minded.org/ Mic, Aunties, 7 to 8 p.m. Online, 838-0206, hands-across-the-falls auntiesbooks.com • Hope-Full. Eat. Listen. Celebrate. Join Faith Leaders and Leaders of Sept 3-6 • Labor Day Weekend Retreat: Perfection Compassionate Addiction Treatment, Conscience of E Wa and N Ida in of Generosity with Ven. Thubten Chodron, 112 E. 1st Ave., 4 to 7 p.m., 919-3362, Sravasti Abbey, sravastiabbey.org facebook.com/events/s/hope-full-eat-listen- Vigil for the Healing the Earth Sept 3-Oct 22 • “Mary Farrell – Meditation on Place: celebrate/590266712354330/ 3 to 4:30 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 3 Prints & Drawings,” Gonzaga Urban Arts Sept 20 • NAACP Spokane General Membership From Interstate 90 Exit 39, go toward Old Center, 125 S Stevens, 5 to 7 p.m., art@ Meeting, zoom, 7 p.m., https://www.facebook. gonzaga.edu, 313-6686 com/spokane.naacp/ Mission State Park and follow The Dredge Sept 4 • Back to School Supply Drive, Holy Temple Sept 21 • The Art of Rebellion: Social Justice and Road to the Old Mission Landing. COGIC, 806 W. Indiana, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., 828- Chicana/Chicano Visual Arts, Jake Prendez, [email protected] 7719, [email protected] online, 6:30 p.m., www.humanities.org/event/ • Second Saturdays, Palouse, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., online-the-art-of-rebellion-social-justice-and- (509) 878-1811, [email protected], chicana-chicano-visual-arts visitpalouse.com Sept 23 • “Eye Contact: A Night of Art Fundraiser” for Crashes are NOT Accidents! Sept 5 • Virtual Jubilee Market begins, First Volunteers of America, Washington Cracker Co. Presbyterian and Feast World Kitchen, Building, 304 W. Pacific, 5 to 8 p.m., 710-8944, Have you been impacted spokanefpc.org/jubilee-international- voaspokane.org/eyecontact by an impaired driving crash? marketplace • HRC Ministries Gala, Davenport Grand Hotel, Sept 6 • Labor Day Concert in the Park, Spokane 333 W. Spokane Falls Blvd., 5 to 8:30 p.m. Are you willing to share Symphony, Pavilion at Riverfront, 574 N. 922-0939, hrcministries.com your story to help save lives? Howard St., 6 p.m., spokanesymphony.org Sept 24-26 • Valleyfest, 13500 Mirabeau Parkway, Spokane Sept 7 • Black Lives Matter Artist Grant Exhibition, Valley, valleyfest.org Become a Spokane County WSU Pullman, Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Sept 25 • El Mercadito, Latinos En Spokane, A.M. DUI Victims Panel speaker Art, 1 p.m., events.wsu.edu Cannon Park, 1511 N. Elm, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Sept 9 • Rural Nonprofits Gathering, Washington [email protected], 558-9359 Contact the Greater Spokane Substance Abuse Council Nonprofits, online, 1:30 to 3 p.m., • Kids Drop In & Code, Spark Central, 1214 W. (509) 922-8383 or [email protected] • www.gssac. washingtonnonprofits.org Summit Pkwy, 12:30 to 2:30 p.m., 279-0299 Sept 9, 23 • Showing Up for Racial Justice, online, 5:30 Sept 25-29 • Justice Week, The Way to Justice, 845 S. p.m., [email protected] Sherman, thewaytojustice.com Sept 10 • Over the Edge: Rappel for a Cause, Habitat for Sept 28 • “The Cold Millions” by Jess Walter, Aunties, Humanity Spokane, online fundraiser, habitat- The Hive, 2904 E. Sprague, 7 p.m., 879-6466, spokane.org POSTPONED TO May auntiesbooks.com/event/cold-millions-jess- • Second Friday Artwalk, Downtown Coeur walter -10% of sales to library d’Alene, 5 to 8 p.m., 208-415-0116, Sept 29 • Madeleine Albright, Whitworth President’s Sept 10-13 • Negative Split Marathon, Mead, (208) 806- Leadership Forum, Spokane Convention 1311, runsignup.com Center, 7:30 to 9 a.m., whitworth.edu Sept 13 • Building Communities in a Dying Civilization, • Fig Tree Mailing and Distribution, Emmanuel John Cobb Jr., Climate Center, Gonzaga Family Life Center, 631 S. Richard Allen Ct., 9 University, online, 4 to 5:15 p.m., Gonzaga.edu/ a.m., 535-4112 center-for-climate-society-environment/events • Black Lives Matter: An Intergenerational Sept 13, 16 • Domestic Violence 101 Training: Discussion, WSU, Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Wednesdays & Saturdays – 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. “Recognize. Respond. Refer,” virtual, Monday, Art, 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., events.wsu.edu Open through Saturday, Oct. 31 10 a.m.; Thursday, 2 p.m., 385-6623 Sept 29-Oct 3 • Byzantine Icon Workshop/Retreat, Natural and organic fruit, vegetables, meats, eggs, bread, honey, Sept 14 • Eastern Washington Legislative Conference Praying the Mystery of St. Joseph, Immaculate garlic, flowers, nuts and more from local family farms. planning committee, online, 1 p.m., kaye@ Heart Retreat Center, 6910 S. Ben Burr Rd., Food Stamps/EBT, Visa/MC, WIC & Senior thefigtree.org, 535-4112 ihrc.net, 448-1224 Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program Coupons • Climate Action Meeting, 350 Spokane, Oct 2 • Mennonite Country Auction and Sale, Menno 20 W. 5th Ave. between Division & Brown - Downtown rooftop, Saranac Pub, 6:30 to 8 p.m., Mennonite Church, 20 miles west of Ritzville, 995-0812 • www.spokanefarmersmarket.org [email protected], 350spokane.org 659-0926, memmomennonite.org Sept 14-16 • “Watercolor Journey II,” Spirit Center, Oct 3 • Vigil for the Healing of the Earth, Old Cottonwood, Idaho, 208-962-2000 Mission Landing at Cataldo, 3 to 4:30 p.m., Sept 16 • Rock the Runway Fashion Show and Auction [email protected] for The Arc of Spokane, The Historic Flight Oct 4-10 • “Lights, Camera, Auction!” virtual Partnering Wherever you are, Foundation, 5829 E. Rutter Ave., 5:30 p.m., for Progress Into Africa Auction, 9 a.m. to 5 [email protected], arc-spokane.org p.m. daily, livestream bidding 7 to 8 p.m., Oct. stay connected • Thursday Night Live, Northwest Museum of 7, partneringforprogress.org/virtual-into-africa- Arts & Culture, 2316 W. 1st Ave., 456-3931, auction/ through northwestmuseum.org Oct 7 • Fig Tree Benefit/Development and Board Sept 16-18 • PJALS 2021 Action Conference, “No Meetings, 631 S Richard Allen Ct., noon - Turning Back: Radical Progress and Collective benefit, 1 to 3 - board, 535-1813

GRANTS FOR SPOKANE ARTISTS AND ARTS PROGRAMMING Requests up to $10,000

Grants for performance, literary, musical, WHAT craft, traditional, visual arts, educational programming... CurbsideFair pickup, Trade, delivery and shipping Local available Local individuals, non-profits, and businesses for operational costs, projects, and programs can apply. Earth35 W. Main, Friendly Spokane WH0 509-464-7677 Applications are due online FEBRUARY 1, JUNE 1, Curbsidewww.kizurispokane.com pickup, delivery and shipping available WHen and OCTOBER 1 every year. 35 W. Main, Spokane

509-464-7677 www.spokanearts.org/grantsAPPLY NOW! www.kizurispokane.com Page 12 - The Fig Tree - September 2021 St. Vincent de Paul in North Idaho celebrates 75th year of serving By Kaye Hult have continued all our services, Barb wanted to give back. So The 75th Anniversary celebra- including the dining hall.” she decided to work with SVDP. tion for St Vincent de Paul North The services are possible She likes helping people and Idaho (SVDP) in Coeur d’Alene because local nonprofits work celebrating their success stories. on Thursday, Sept. 9, which was together, said Barb. She appreciates the generosity of sold out, has been postponed. Barb grew up on a large farm those who help. It was planned as an oppor- in Minnesota in a loving family Barb advises people to consid- tunity to learn of the agency’s with 13 children. They had to er what they want to have, what history, reflect on the years and help each other meet their needs they want to do, what they want invite the audience to examine and had to care about each oth- to be and what they want to give. how they have helped or can help ers’ feelings. “We have a responsibility to the community. After education in Minnesota give to our community,” she said. Development director Barbara and work in Tennessee and Port- At SVDP’s Nov. 18 “Souport Smalley attributes the response land, Ore., she settled in Coeur the End of Homelessness” Lun- to the role it has played serving d’Alene, where she married, had cheon people can sample more the community over those years. four children and has lived for than 50 soups and donate to sup- Since coming to SVDP 10 Barbara Smalley educates community on work of agency. more than 30 years. port the winter’s warming shelter years ago, she has been tell- She spent 10 years working to protect people from the cold. ing the story of St. Vincent de did not have a goal of being ity assistance for people in their in the travel industry and 10 in For information, call 208- Paul, which is known for its homeless or low income. own homes, facing eviction or sales at the Coeur d’Alene Press. 664-3095 or email barbara@ thrift stores in Post Falls, Coeur Barb said housing is increas- utility cut-off. Individuals may After her husband’s death, stvincentdepaulcda.org. d’Alene and Osburn in the Silver ingly hard to locate. SVDP helps apply for this help. If Social Secu- Valley, but is much more. people find jobs more readily. rity requires it, SVDP helps with St. Vincent de Paul in North Its men’s and women’s shel- representative payee services. Idaho is also a social service ters offer information and refer- For people with limited access agency, offering housing, shel- ral to services, job counseling to food, SVDP offers meals at Fa- ters and services for seniors and and life skill classes. ther Bill’s Kitchen, a community families with children. Most ser- Clients are expected to volun- dining hall that serves a free meal vices are offered at the H.E.L.P. teer at the thrift store and help Monday to Friday evenings. Center, 201 E. Harrison Ave. in with chores at the shelters. They The Child and Adult Care Coeur d’Alene. are to save half their income so Food Program provides children “Beyond the homeless, we they will have money for their in day care with food. work with all those who struggle, own residence when they leave. Barb said a lack of transporta- such as the ALICE (Asset Lim- They are expected to find em- tion makes the many area food ited, Income Constrained, Em- ployment within 30 days of their banks difficult for many to access, ployed) population,” she said, maximum 90 days of residence, except people who live nearby. noting that includes veterans and when they are to move from the “Father Bill’s Kitchen is cen- people with disabilities. shelter into a stable situation. trally located and on the bus SVDP also offers parenting For those seeking work, St line, as is the Coeur d’Alene classes through ICARE Parent- Vincent de Paul provides career SVDP campus,” Barb said. Specialized Care ing Support, which also offers counseling and a voucher pro- “Throughout the pandemic, we child sexual abuse prevention gram for job search. Job seekers for People 60+ workshops. gain skills and confidence for job In 1946, Coeur d’Alene was a interviews. small lumber and mining commu- SVDP operates more than Schedule an in-person nity. Members of the St. Thomas 300 units of permanent senior radically local and sustainable or video visit. parish saw neighbors in need and and low-income housing in the FARM - TO - TABLE started a clothes closet. That grew five counties of North Idaho. into St. Vincent de Paul, which is Its Trinity Group Homes are SUBSCRIPTION now the largest organization in semi-independent homes in North Idaho serving low-income Coeur d’Alene and Post Falls for 509.444.8200 and homeless people. those with mental health issues ¯ As they seek to provide sup- who need life skills training. LINC Foods chas.org port and compassion along with Their goal is for residents to The Local Inland Northwest Cooperative services to help people be self- graduate into community living. lincfoods.com sufficient, their vision is to offer Angel Arms/Healing Hearts “a hand up, not a hand out,” as Housing provide housing for they “clothe the naked, feed the chronically homeless individuals hungry and shelter the homeless” and families. The head of house- They also help people enrich hold must have a documented dis- and rebuild their lives with ability. The goal is for residents to dignity, said Barb. When she be trained, gain self-sufficiency encounters people with a judg- and move into independent living mental view of SVDP clients, within two years. she urges them to realize clients SVDP also offers rent and util-

MADELEINE ALBRIGHT Wednesday, Sept. 29, 2021 | 7:30-9 a.m. Spokane Convention Center $75/individual; $750/corporate table. Breakfast included. As secretary of state under President Bill Clinton, Albright reinforced America’s alliances, advocated for democracy and human rights, and promoted American trade, business, labor and environmental standards abroad. For these efforts, she was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2012. A professor, diplomat, businesswoman and bestselling Portrait by: Lauren Bulbin author, Albright recently released a new memoir titled Hell & Other Destinations. Tickets available at whitworth.edu/leadershipforum.