Community Resource Center Executive Director Jo Allegro Smith and Love Inc. of Mid Delmarva (Code Purple) Executive Director Susan Kent combined their resources to deliver basic services to those people experiencing homelessness during the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic. CRC and Code Purple provided services seven days a week which included meals, laundry facilities, job and financial counseling, physical and mental health services, and most importantly, a place that was safe and where the guests were wanted.
The fact that these services existed is because of an army of caring, compassionate volunteers. We need to do so much more. Homelessness is a social justice issue, and having a roof over your head and a bed to sleep in is a basic human right.
But this letter is to recognize the variety of organizations, individuals, and communities that provided the funds to purchase a hot lunch and a hot dinner and also all who personally prepared and delivered meals to those who were in dire need. I cannot list all of the individuals, but the following made a commitment to help and did so from December until the following April. The Rotary of Lewes-Rehoboth, with President Chuck Ward’s encouragement, funded supplies and provided innumerable meals to both CRC and Code Purple. Past President George Jarvis did a masterful job of coordinating and making sure all commitments were filled by volunteers who made fabulous meals. Cheryl Wood from Conley’s United Methodist, Tony Marks from St. Edmond, Emily Eider from Seaside Jewish Community, Cathie Wagner from Bethel United Methodist, Deb Norton from Westminster and Coolspring Presbyterian Churches, and P.E.O. Sisterhood, Chicks for Charity, residents at the Retreat at Love Creek, and many individual volunteers from Delaware Humane Association and CRC. Too many people to name individually, but all incredibly valued.
The call went out and the village answered. It’s hard for most people to imagine the gratitude that the guests felt to know that someone cared enough about them to make them a meal. It was my privilege and honor to be involved in this very human cause.
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