As of Monday, March 16, 2020
We are evaluating how to maximize social distancing in all of our operations, especially as the pandemic progresses. We are experiencing a reduction in our food sourcing channels and doing our best to gather as much food product as possible. We have released our mobile pantry distributions for this week however, if social distancing requirements change, we will reassess our schedule. Click here for the mobile pantry schedule.
Your food bank believes that we are in a marathon race and not a sprint. As such we anticipate that we will be transitioning from our normal distribution channels to a more innovative yet costly model. This transition will happen as social distancing becomes more of a mandate and less of a suggestion and as our traditional food rescuing sources become insufficient.
Our plan is to utilize a drive-thru distribution model. This model necessitates distributing prepacked shelf stable food kits and if possible, supplementing the kits with fresh products. We have identified distribution points throughout our five-county footprint and continue to seek additional sites that are conducive to this model of food distribution. We have begun building food kits and need volunteers to help build and distribute these kits.
We are building a volunteer schedule that staggers and limits the numbers of volunteers in our facilities to protect their safety while meeting the tremendous demand for a volunteer workforce. Should you register to volunteer, please do not be surprised if we ask you about your health and recent travels.
If you are able, well and willing to help in our warehouse or with the distribution efforts, please contact Lori Harrington, volunteer manager at volunteering@harrychapinfoodbank.org.
The drive-thru distribution model that we believe will become required, is the most effective, quick and secure method, yet an expensive way to feed those who are hungry. We have already started purchasing food and need to buy more to sustain our efforts. If you feel led to contribute to support our efforts, please click here to make a gift.