Hi John,
This has been a tough week. Our daily lives have changed significantly, but we will get through this together. Here are some ways that we can help each other weather the crisis.
You already know about the importance of distancing yourself from others and practicing good hygiene to slow the spread of the virus. We can also help our community by supporting local groups like Community Solidarity and Meals on Wheels who are doing incredible work right here on Long Island to ensure our most vulnerable citizens continue to have access to food and clothing.
Community Solidarity distributes groceries in the community through their weekly “Food Shares” located across Long Island and New York City. They have adapted their food share plans during this outbreak to make sure everyone is as safe from exposure as possible. Food is distributed to our older community members first, with no more than 10 people served at a time, and people are separated by at least six feet at all times.
The Community Solidarity family is doing critical work at this time -- and as the pandemic worsens, it’s paramount that we keep this resource available to the public as long as possible. If you are under the age of 50 and in good health, they need your help. You can learn about volunteer opportunities here. They also accept donations of food, second hand clothes, books, school supplies, and more. If you would like to donate any of these items to help Long Island families in need, please visit their website to schedule a pick up. (https://communitysolidarity.org/donate/food)
Meals on Wheels has been focused on addressing the escalating problem of senior hunger and isolation -- a problem that faced our communities long before the outbreak. Now our seniors need us more than ever to keep them safe, as they are the most at-risk group. You can sign up to volunteer to deliver meals in your community during a lunch break here.
As we continue to adapt to this new reality, it is important that we do what we can to support the most vulnerable in our community. Thanks for doing what you can.
Take care,
Nancy
