I wanted to check in with you to let you know Kelly’s kitchen is working to close the gap for our neighbors that are having profound difficulties preparing their household for social distancing or quarantine.The ripple effect that occurs when food hoarding and social distancing becomes our new normal, prevents the least fortunate and most vulnerable from having what they need.
Grocery stores aren’t the only places that have empty shelves, our community food banks and pantries are also hurting. Many food banks are seeing record crowds and experiencing a drop off in donations, especially fresh and perishable foods.
Kelly’s Kitchen is working with the National Council on Independent Living (NCIL) and other stakeholder organizations to identify independent living centers that currently have a food pantry or would like to set one up. Disproportionately people with physical, emotional and developmental disabilities live in food insecure situations on a regular basis. Frequently, the local food bank or pantry is necessary to supplement basic food needs. The current situation has put a stress on all food channels, including food banks and pantries.
Thank you to those that have responded to our poll. We’ve gathered helpful information that is helping us to address your needs. Below are the results so far:
We’re all facing a whole new world. Our old ways will be forever changed by our actions today. To ensure the change is positive we need to help our neighbor.
Ways to help
1. Stay home!!!
2. If you can afford to stock-up, leave the less expensive items for those who can’t .
3. Check with your neighbor and make sure they have what they need.
4. Stay in touch with your neighborhood and local social media pages. Encourage those who need help to reach out.
5. Support local food distribution non-profits with donations and time.
6. Buy only what you really need.
We’re looking forward to hearing from you, so look for a new poll tomorrow. Please help us help others by donating to our work. We need you to make it happen.