On Thursday, March 26, 2020, The Salvation Army of Greensboro began it’s Food Bank process of delivering food to those in need, but the process was anything but normal. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic and social distancing requirements, the program has moved outdoors, paperwork to receive food has been cut back, and staff is ready to help deliver bags to cars, while ensuring safety for all. "To continue serving people and to ensure safety, The Salvation Army in Greensboro has created a new system of food delivery to make sure the people who are most vulnerable receive food and comfort," explained Briana McDuffie, resident lead case manager for The Salvation Army of Greensboro. "Our program has been moved outside. People are able to approach a table, give their information and walk away with the items most needed. Each of our staff have been trained to safely communicate and deliver the needed materials while assisting others and allowing a connection in a world where connections are becoming more and more difficult." As with every Tuesday and Thursday a line of people seeking food formed. As people walked away with much needed supplies, their solemn and stressed expressions turned to smiles. Hearts were lifted and words of kindness and encouragement were given to each individual. Captain Matt Hedgren, Corps Officer for the Greensboro Command was loading bags into cars and said, “We do this because the need is so great, and even though it has become more difficult, we will not stop. We must carry on because if The Salvation Army simply stopped, families would go hungry. Just because this virus has landed here does not mean life stops. It means we must continue to fight for good.” |