From her early years, Sofia Roberts heard about the life of Meri Hōhepa Suzanne Aubert. “My mother always told me about Suzanne Aubert, growing up, and encouraged me to volunteer at Our Lady’s Home of Compassion.”

A few months ago, she began volunteering at the Compassion Soup Kitchen. “I go in the mornings and spend a few hours with the breakfast team. It’s usually pretty basic task, like serving soup, bread, pastries, sandwiches, coffee, and washing dishes.”

Sofia says it is surprising how many people the Compassion Soup Kitchen feeds and the relationship the staff have with those who come in. “It is heart-warming to see such practical action to help others and to see the immediate effects of voluntary action.”

“Giving food to people is such a simple service, but it is also a display of manaakitanga, community, and connection.”