Dear Friends:
Life has certainly changed over the past two months, and we, as a community—as a nation—are being called to do our part to help slow the spread of COVID-19 so as to not overwhelm our hospitals and emergency rooms and to “flatten the curve”.
While many of us have had the opportunity to stock up on food and other crucial items like cleaning supplies, hygiene products and toilet paper in order to prepare for the stay-at-home order, there are many in our community who did not have that ability. For those who struggle to make ends meet, purchasing large quantities of shelf-stable food and toilet tissue was not an option they were afforded. They simply don’t have the money to do so.
That is why Isaiah 58 Ministries services are so important, especially during this time. With the help of a small but dedicated group of volunteers, Isaiah 58 Ministries has revised its model of service in order to provide a safe environment for distributing essential food to those in need. And because many food pantries in our area are closed during this pandemic, we have suspended our boundary guidelines to allow any and all individuals and families throughout our region to be served. Every day we continue providing families with shelf stable food, fresh produce, bread and hygiene products. We are a lifeline to families right now, and they are letting us know just how important we are for them.
Thank you so much for all you are doing. We don’t know what we would do without your help. Especially now, with so many other pantries closed, what you are doing is a Godsend! Thank you! – a client
Unfortunately, with the stay-at-home order in effect, our partner churches, important sources of food donations, have moved to online worship, and are therefore not currently able to collect food and other items for our bag of blessings. So, while the need for food is at an all-time high, our stores of food are simply not being replenished. In addition, our options for food sourcing are currently limited, requiring us to purchase food at retail prices.
We anticipate that in order to provide shelf-stable food through the summer to individuals and families in need we must raise $50,000. Will you help to make this possible? During this time when we are called to stay physically apart, let’s come together in a spirit of giving to ensure that every child—every person in our community—has the food they need to remain healthy. Please consider making a donation online at https://i58ministries.org/donate/
Your contributions to Isaiah 58 Ministries have always been a bright light to our neighbors in need. We are grateful for that support and I know it will continue as we all pull together in this crisis. Be safe, be well.
Sincerely,
Brenda Booth, Executive Director
Monte Abbott, Board Chair