Making a Difference in the Midwest During COVID-19, August 11
As we look around the Midwest this week, a host of inspiring stories about achieving goals, overcoming challenges and helping others greeted us.
100 for 100
August 5, 2020 was a momentous day for Mickey Nelson of Clarks Grove, MN. Not only had the WWII Veteran recently celebrated his 100th birthday, but on this day, he completed his goal of walking 100 miles during the summer to raise funds for The Salvation Army that will be used to help members of his community impacted by COVID-19. Mickey crossed the finish line accompanied by family, friends, community members and WWII reenactors. Mickey’s original goal was to raise $5,000. He’s currently around $110,000. Congratulations and THANK YOU, Mickey! You are an inspiration.
It Goes Together Like Teens and Tacos
Many programs have been paused due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Omaha, NE Citadel Cadet program, which develops the leadership potential of teens, is no exception. Zoom meetings were OK, but something was still missing. When Program Director Matt Walter began thinking about a pandemic-appropriate reboot for the program, he knew tacos must be involved. Then, Matt and Major Shelley McClintock hit on an idea, “Driveway Tacos.” Matt brings tacos to driveway meetups so he can meet with each cadet and have a personal conversation. The location, outdoors and socially distanced, ensures safety for all participants.
The Language of Quarantine
What would you do if you contracted COVID-19? The challenges for most of us would be difficult enough as we recovered from a potentially life-threatening illness while unable to leave the house for necessary food and medications. After some tested positive for COVID-19, a group of 100 agricultural workers in Imlay City, MI faced the additional barriers of language, limited health care and transportation, and close living quarters which could increase infection rates.
“These agricultural laborers are essential. They keep our economy running – they help us get our food! All day under the hot sun, these guys are working in full gear: hats, gloves, pants, boots and masks. When Emergency Disaster Services heard about what was happening, we viewed it as a great opportunity to fill an essential need,” said Lydia Sanchez-Roat, Volunteer & Events Coordinator & Emergency Disaster Services for The Salvation Army Genesee/Shiawassee Regional Command.
Spanish-speaking Salvation Army staff provided translation services and spiritual support through worship. The laborers received everything they would need including daily meals and snacks, hydration, and hygiene kits. A nurse visited them weekly to monitor and treat their health needs. Over four weeks, the men recovered and were able to return to work. “They are here on visas right now, and they are saving money and chasing the dream the rest of us do,” says Sanchez-Roat. “A better life for yourself and your family. A full refrigerator, a home for your kids. They are working harder than anyone I know for it. And every time they open a food box or bottle of water, they are reminded that The Salvation Army is supporting that pursuit.”
Project Protect: Operation Back-to-School
Whether you have children or not, you have heard about the challenges that will accompany this new school year, as we still battled a pandemic. It’s a difficult situation for everyone involved: school administrators, teachers, parents and students. Along with pens, pencils and paper, this school year, face masks are a back-to-school essential. To help, the Eastern Michigan Division created Project Protect: Operation Back-to-School to help metro Detroit school children with their back-to-school needs. The St. David’s Episcopal Church Newcomers Group volunteered to help by making more than 250 cloth masks for the program. The cheery prints are sure to make the new school year a bit more fun.
From a 100 year old veteran who is raising money for his neighbors to a program to connect with teens, and finding ways to help COVID-19 patients and survivors to helping children be prepared for school, these stories inspire us to look beyond ourselves and see how we can help others. Please consider joining The Salvation Army in the Fight for Good by donating a financial gift or volunteering your time.