Paying it forward with pollock: Box of fish turns into Pallet Shelter shindig

Fishwich to the rescue. An impromptu gift brings local group together for a proper BBQ bolstered by spring sunshine.

By Robin Denning

The Power of Pollock

It all started with a box of pollock.

A box of fish, no doubt.

It was given to me by Steve Kane of the Bargeway Pub at a marketing meeting.

Steve handed it to me as a generous gesture that brought a smile to my face.

But it weighed 8 pounds. What was I going to do with it?

Surely, I could not eat it all!

Then it occurred to me. Have a party!

(Editor’s note - this occurs a lot to Robin.)

I realized that it would be a perfect opportunity to bring a little joy to the residents of the pallet shelter on Bargeway Road in The Dalles. So I took it upon myself to make sure that the fish wouldn't go to waste.

I picked up some rolls and coleslaw to add to the fun and then headed over to the shelter.

Awaiting the Pollock at the pallet shelters on Bargeway Road. Blue and white fish box at left on table.

Residents and staff at The Dalles Pallet Shelter were in for a special treat on Tuesday, April 4, when that box of surplus fish was donated by Steve and ended up on pallet shelter grill. Is there anything propane can’t do?

It brought smiles to the faces of those at the shelter, many of whom are experiencing houselessness.

This is a perfect image of a pollock sandwich. Ours did not look quite the same. Oh, but the flavor was enhanced with a nice slathering of friendship.

When I arrived, the atmosphere was initially a little quiet.

Perhaps they were a bit curious about who was this person with a box of fish and a funny accent.

But it wasn't long before jokes were being made and ideas were being exchanged on how best to cook up the fish on the BBQ. Shelter staff Rob and Mckenzie even got in on the cooking action, and before long, the sound of laughter was replaced with the more focused sound of people enjoying a fresh pollock sandwich.

The cookout was a reminder that small acts of kindness can make a big difference in the lives of those who need it most. It was heartwarming to see how the simple act of sharing a meal brought together the residents of The Dalles Pallet Shelter and created a sense of community.

Editor’s note - Robin Denning is a journalist and co-founder of CCCNews.