The Lord's Diner, a food ministry located in downtown Wichita, has recently made a transition from serving meals in disposable containers to using plates and silverware. This shift aims to bring a sense of dignity to the guests and create a more welcoming environment.

Sarah Hoffman, the director of Communications and PR for The Lord's Diner, explained that the decision to switch to real dishes was driven by the desire to serve meals in a way that respects the person's dignity. She stated, "Returning to real dishes allows us to serve a meal in an environment that speaks to the person's dignity. We want to communicate to them that they are worth more than a disposable tray."

The transition from disposable containers to plates and silverware went smoothly, thanks to the preparations made over the past four years. Since the Covid pandemic began, The Lord's Diner had been serving to-go meals in foam containers. However, the experience gained during this period helped them seamlessly implement the use of real dishes.

Bishop Eugene J. Gerber's original vision for The Lord's Diner was to create a space where everyone could gather around a warm meal, build community, and share life. Although the pandemic has brought about changes, the ministry remains committed to upholding this vision. Hoffman shared, "COVID gave The Diner a new perspective. It taught us that there's dignity in choice, so we're allowing our guests to have a to-go option. About 25 percent of our guests are still taking it to go."

The guests at The Lord's Diner have responded positively to the change. They appreciate being able to drink coffee from actual mugs and eat with real silverware. Hoffman mentioned, "There is a real difference in that, and we are communicating to them that they are worth more than a disposable tray." One guest even expressed how the transition made them feel valued, saying, "For a little while, I didn't feel homeless... I felt like somebody."

While the transition itself was successful, the ministry faced a challenge with the number of volunteers needed. Hoffman explained that due to the ongoing pandemic, they have fewer volunteers than before. However, both the staff and volunteers are adapting to the new process and learning together. Hoffman emphasized the importance of volunteering at The Lord's Diner, stating, "Volunteering at The Lord's Diner is an opportunity for people to dive deeper into the call of service to God and one another."

The Lord's Diner serves meals 365 days a year, which means the need for volunteers is constant. They are still looking for small volunteer groups to assist at both the Broadway and Hillside locations. Those interested in volunteering can contact The Lord's Diner Volunteer Coordinator, Mary Claire Heimerman, at [email protected]

As The Lord's Diner continues to provide meals and create a welcoming space for those in need, the transition to using real dishes reflects their commitment to treating every guest with dignity and respect.