TERRORIST ATTACKS DEEPEN SEASON'S SENSE OF CARING, VOLUNTEERS SAY.

Byline: Holly Edwards Staff Writer

In the aftermath of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, even longtime San Fernando Valley volunteers have found a renewed sense of vigor and purpose this Thanksgiving holiday.

``All of us have been so affected by the terrorist attacks, and we just feel like we want to go out and do something for the community,'' said Frances Aberbom, 78, of Sherman Oaks, who will deliver meals to the homebound on Thanksgiving Day. ``It's heartbreaking to see some of these people all alone on Thanksgiving, and it seems more important than ever now to do what we can.''

Many volunteers said the attacks made them realize just how fragile life is and how important it is for everyone to care for each other.

``I've been a volunteer all my life, but it seems more meaningful now than ever,'' said Sam Weinstock, 79, of North Hollywood, who will also deliver Thanksgiving dinner to the homebound. ``We all feel more vulnerable, so we feel more empathy with each other. We realize we're all in the same boat together.''

For those on the receiving end, the companionship of the volunteers is as important as the turkey, dressing and mashed potatoes.

Dozens of homeless and needy people lined up at a Presbyterian church in Van Nuys on Friday for a Thanksgiving ``minimeal'' served by volunteers from the church and the San Fernando Valley Rescue Mission.

``Just knowing there are people who care motivates me to survive,'' said a 44-year-old homeless man who did not want to be identified. ``I'm on the streets all day and all night all alone, and it's blessing to have this fellowship.''

A 39-year-old woman who said she's been homeless for six years and is due to have a child in February called the meals ``a gift from God.''

``This really means a lot to the homeless,'' said Debbie Rodriguez, who spends her days in the Van Nuys library or sitting in front of the courthouse. ``Sometimes it seems like I can barely make it.''

While senior centers in North Hollywood, Van Nuys and Pacoima will deliver about 200 meals to homebound seniors, the rescue mission has organized three holiday ``minimeals'' as well as a larger, sit-down dinner on Wednesday at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Winnetka.

Steven's Nurseries in North Hollywood has also donated hundreds of small plants to be delivered with each meal delivered to homebound seniors.

Though Valley charity organizations said they are saturated with volunteers, rescue mission officials said donations of frozen turkeys and canned goods are still needed. Donated food can be dropped-off at the rescue mission headquarters at 13422 Saticoy Street in North Hollywood.

One rescue mission volunteer said he knows how important his work is because the charity of others saved his life. Ruben Rodriguez, 39, of Oxnard said he was a heroin addict for 20 years and frequently relied upon the rescue mission for meals.

Rodriguez enrolled in the rescue mission's drug rehabilitation program two months ago and is now serving food to the homeless.

``I was once where they are now, and I tell them there's a better way,'' he said. ``Every morning I wake up and thank God for another day, and it brings joy to my heart to be able to do something for other people.''

Other volunteers said they serve the needy during the holidays to teach their children the importance of giving.

Kathy Muir of Reseda, a 40-year-old mother of three, said she takes all of her children with her when she delivers food during the holidays.

``By being exposed to people who are sad, who don't have a meal, who have no one to talk to, they realize there are things more important than themselves,'' she said.

While the charity work is important to the family all year long, Muir said it has new meaning since the terrorist attacks.

``I guess what really makes it different now is we realize life can change in a second,'' Muir said. ``This holiday season, I really feel for those affected by the tragedy.''

TIME FOR GIVING

While many San Fernando Valley charities have all the volunteers they need for the Thanksgiving holiday, others need help.

--The Midnight Mission on South Los Angeles Street typically feeds about 2,000 people during the holiday and has not yet filled all volunteer openings. The mission can be reached by calling [phone].

--The Los Angeles Rescue Mission on East Fifth Street is seeking donations of food. That mission can be reached at [phone].

--The San Fernando Valley Rescue Mission also needs donations of frozen turkeys and canned goods. The food can be dropped off at the mission's headquarters at 13422 Saticoy St.

--A new Web site also offers a variety of volunteer opportunities by ZIP code. The Web site can be found at www.helping.org.

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