We live in world racked by hunger and food insecurity, even during
the best of times. The need for food and basic household goods grows
geometrically more acute now during this time of pandemic, especially for our
most vulnerable fellow citizens.
In this fog
of crisis, uncertainty, food hoarding and horrific national leadership, food
banks, food pantries and other food-assistance providers remain beacons of
stability, security and, yes, survival. I left a Monday conference call held by
Greater Boston Food Bank President & CEO Catherine D’Amato and her team
more impressed than ever with their leadership, management skills, logistical
expertise, empathy and passion for their singular mission. Imagine having to
double your already-enormous daily distribution overnight because of the pandemic? Well, they’re
doing it.
One cannot
overestimate the heroism of the team that works in the Food Bank’s distribution
center, drives their trucks and even now continues to serve as volunteer food
sorters and packers. These folks are an indispensable lifeline to the agencies
that feed many thousands of people across Eastern Massachusetts day after day
after day. And right now, with all due safety precautions in place, these
warehouse and fleet operators are away from their families and placing themselves
at risk as essential personnel needed to keep people optimistic, healthy and alive.
Walt and I
just made an extra donation during these difficult times. To make a donation and learn more about the Food Bank's extraordinary work, please visit their website @ www.gbfb.org
Image courtesy of the Greater Boston Food Bank.