Written by: Erin Gammil
Institute for GOD Student
Chippington Towers is a low-income, government-subsidized high-rise apartment building for the elderly and disabled. I’ve had the privilege of serving there since I was a teenager. Many residents at Chippington have mobility challenges and are unable to keep their living spaces tidy enough to pass the building’s regular cleaning inspections. As part of my undergraduate experience at the Institute for GOD, I volunteer regularly to visit the residents and assist with cleaning tasks. Over the years, I’ve met many remarkable and unforgettable people.
This semester, I’ve had the opportunity to clean for the same eight residents each week on Wednesdays. The joy I feel in spending time with them, hearing their stories, and chatting about what’s happening in my life is indescribable. Each resident has lived an incredible life and is eager to share their experiences and wisdom with me and the other students. They love to hear about our experiences as students—our classes, what’s happening on campus, and how we’re navigating our lives.
It’s emotional to think about many of their stories, especially in a society where the elderly are often overlooked. Most of the residents at Chippington live alone and have few visitors or opportunities to interact with others outside their generation. Though they’ve lived full, meaningful lives, they often lack someone to pass on their legacy to.
Our visits disrupt that reality. Each week, we show them they are not forgotten, and that there are still people who care about them. Many residents have shared that our visits bring them joy and improve their mental health. Our presence gives them a chance to talk about their life’s accomplishments and offer advice to young people learning to navigate the world. In return, we are blessed by getting to know some truly extraordinary people.
When I reflect on my time serving at Chippington, I’m reminded of Deuteronomy 10:17-18: “For the LORD your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great God, mighty and awesome, who is not partial and takes no bribe, who executes justice for the orphan and the widow, and who loves the strangers, providing them food and clothing.” Each week, I have the opportunity to live out this scripture by caring for the widows and elderly at Chippington. I’ll forever testify that I have been transformed for the better by serving there. My time with the residents has deepened my compassion and improved my ability to listen. I’ve been blessed by this effort to execute justice and care for a community in true need.
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