Remembering Father Eugene Brake: A Life Dedicated to Social Justice and Feeding the Hungry

Father Eugene Brake, a Catholic priest who co-founded the Washington area's largest food bank and spent decades championing social justice, passed away on July 20 at the age of 89. Brake's unwavering commitment to serving the less fortunate and his tireless advocacy for marginalized communities left an indelible mark on the region and inspired countless individuals to follow in his footsteps.

Pioneering a Hunger-Free Future

Founding the Capital Area Food Bank

In 1980, Father Brake co-founded the Capital Area Food Bank, a groundbreaking partnership between the United Planning Organization and the Interfaith Conference of Metropolitan Washington. The food bank was established as a bridge between local agencies feeding the hungry and grocery stores looking to offload excess food. Starting from a small, leaky warehouse in Northeast Washington, the organization quickly grew to become a vital resource for the region, distributing over 1 million pounds of food in its first year alone.As government funding for food assistance programs dwindled, the Capital Area Food Bank stepped in to fill the void. Under Brake's leadership, the organization expanded its operations, opening a second location in Lorton, Virginia, and forging partnerships with local organizations to provide comprehensive support, including healthcare, job training, and educational programs. Last year, the food bank distributed an impressive 73 million pounds of food, half of which was fresh produce.

A Hands-On Approach to Serving the Hungry

Brake's dedication to the food bank was unparalleled. He was described as the "heart and soul of the place," rolling up his sleeves and getting his hands dirty to ensure the organization's success. Whether it was tearing down walls to expand the warehouse, building makeshift desks out of particle board, or organizing the shopping area, Brake was always willing to do whatever it took to keep the food bank running smoothly.His colleagues fondly recalled Brake's "funny, conspiratorial tone" and his ability to never take himself too seriously, even as he tackled the serious work of social justice. Despite his humble beginnings and lack of formal education, Brake's unwavering commitment to making a difference inspired those around him to strive for greatness.

Leaving a Lasting Legacy

Brake's impact on the Capital Area Food Bank extended far beyond its physical growth and operational efficiency. He instilled a sense of purpose and community within the organization, fostering a culture of compassion and service that continues to this day. Even after leaving the priesthood in the late 1980s, Brake remained a regular presence at the food bank, serving as a constant reminder of the organization's founding principles and the importance of addressing hunger and inequality in the region.The dedication ceremony for the food bank's new million distribution center in 2012 was a poignant moment for Brake, who reflected on the organization's journey. "We got this far by faith," he said, "and we will move forward in hope. This building is proof." Brake's unwavering faith and hope in a better future for all served as the driving force behind his life's work, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

A Lifelong Advocate for Social Justice

Activism and advocacy were at the core of Brake's ministry. He was a tireless champion for the rights of the marginalized, including Soviet Jews, the anti-war movement, and incarcerated individuals in Virginia. Brake's willingness to take bold, often controversial, actions to draw attention to these causes earned him the respect and admiration of many, but also the ire of the Catholic hierarchy.Whether it was demonstrating outside the Pentagon, the Soviet Embassy, or the residence of a future cardinal, Brake never shied away from using dramatic tactics to advance his beliefs. He was arrested multiple times for his civil disobedience, but his commitment to social justice remained unwavering. Brake's colleagues described him as a "prophet" who felt responsible only to God, a trait that sometimes put him at odds with the church's more conservative leadership.

A Life of Simplicity and Service

Brake's personal life was a reflection of his dedication to service and social justice. He was known for his simple lifestyle, subsisting on a diet of peanut butter and crackers, washed down with the occasional Diet Pepsi. He preferred to bike or walk everywhere, eschewing the comforts of modern transportation. This commitment to living a life of simplicity allowed Brake to focus his energy and resources on the causes he held dear.As a volunteer chaplain at Lorton Reformatory, Brake made the 30-mile bike ride each way to meet with inmates, helping them find jobs and housing upon their release. He also worked at McKenna House, a shelter for men transitioning out of homelessness, further demonstrating his unwavering dedication to serving the most vulnerable members of society.Brake's colleagues and friends often remarked on his ability to inspire those around him, despite his unassuming demeanor. "How can I be better?" was a common refrain heard from those who encountered Brake, as his simple yet profound approach to life and service left a lasting impression on all who knew him.