Making a Difference in the Midwest During COVID-19, July 15
When we read about COVID-19 in news articles, we so often see a focus on statistics, such as case counts, hospitalizations and fatalities. We may forget that this is a wholistic disease. It effects every single aspect of a person’s life – their physical and emotional health, financial stability, job security or prospects, and their family and friends. Even those who have not contracted the virus may be similarly impacted by job loss, financial insecurity, and stress to their physical and emotional wellbeing.
The Salvation Army is here to help. Lt. Colonel Dan Jennings, Divisional Commander for the Northern Division, may have said it best. “The Salvation Army has never been more relevant than it is today. This is the worst human suffering we’ve seen in the last few decades. But The Salvation Army is probably the most equipped and well-placed organization to meet these needs.”
Across the Midwest, The Salvation Army has expanded its food distribution programs to meet the increasing needs of this ongoing public health crisis. Through delivered prepared meals for those who are unable to leave their homes and food boxes to supplement family pantries, we are meeting the nutritional needs of our communities.
Paying it Forward
Byron is a mechanic with a family of four. His girlfriend is part-owner of a local restaurant, which now struggles with decreased traffic. He picks up a food box or two each week from The Salvation Army in St. Paul, MN, which has already distributed more food in the past three months than in all of 2019. The food they receive supplements their home pantry, allowing them to pay their rent and bills. He donates any extra food to a local homeless camp. “The other day, I brought bread and peanut butter and gave it to people in one of the camps,” Byron said. “Thank you to everyone who is supporting The Salvation Army. There are lots of people out here who need help.”
COVID Victory Gardens Stock Food Pantry Shelves
When states implemented stay-at-home orders in the spring, baking yeast began flying off the shelves as people searched for a sense of home, safety and grounding. Many found that through baking bread. Did you know that garden seed sales also skyrocketed? COVID-19 “Victory Gardens” also offered a sense of safety during a time of uncertain food distribution chains.
For The Salvation Army in Eagle Creek, Evansville and New Albany, IN, garden plots offer an opportunity to teach children about food, gardening and nutrition. They also serve an important role in their COVID-19 relief efforts as they provide fresh vegetables for use in meal distribution programs and food pantries. In anticipation of the increased need within their community, the Evansville service and worship center expanded their garden by 40 percent for the current growing season.
The Salvation Army is working to provide nutrition assistance to those in need. With our corporate and local partners, donors, volunteers, and friends, we are making a difference in our communities. Please join us in Doing the Most Good