Michelle Book’s Weekly COVID-19 Update: Week Two
I’m tired. Are you tired? What a week!
The need is growing, but along with it so is your support. Our phones are ringing constantly and there is a constant flow of people at the front door. Some people want to help. Others need help. All of them are nervous and unsure of what the coming weeks will bring.
While the last two weeks have been hard, with much uncertainty, numerous questions, and many changes, I am grateful for the outpouring support from many of you across the state.
Earlier this week, I talked about the need to shift our efforts toward creating food packs that contain shelf-stable food which may be easily handed out to Iowans in need, reducing the person to person contact. And I asked for volunteers. You heard me and you showed up. You helped fund and build 2,500 emergency response bags, 400 of which went to Des Moines Public School families this week. And that’s just the start.
There has been an energetic response by many reaching out in creative ways to partner with Food Bank of Iowa. Our Iowa Wild friends are offering fan-friendly perks for joining their financial campaign. Choice Creative Solutions and Community Choice Credit Union have teamed up to donate $100 for every time someone feeds healthcare workers with local restaurant takeout food. Annie and Tom Baldwin have offered to donate enough to feed a family of four for each take out order from a Dark Side of the Spoon Hospitality restaurant. And many, many more have set up team funding challenges.
Please check out our donation site at FoodBankIowa.org. Thank these businesses. Consider supporting them during these challenging times. And learn how you can create your own online fundraising campaign as many have done already. It’s quick. It’s easy. And it’s fun!
I would be remiss to leave out the efforts of the amazingly passionate Food Bank of Iowa hunger-fighting team, including dedicated volunteers and employees. We have never been stronger. I have no doubt that the upcoming weeks will be difficult and challenging. And without a doubt I know we will meet the challenge. Scared and hungry Iowans will be served. Thank you for helping us help others.
We will continue to keep you updated through our website and social media channels. As we know more, we will share information with you.