Adventist Health donates funds to support critical community organizations during the pandemic
Monday, June 8, 2020 (Ukiah, CA) – The COVID-19’s spread and the shelter in place orders have had a significant impact on individuals, families, businesses, and our economy. Many not-for-profit, locally based organizations that provide irreplaceable support services to their communities are among the hardest hit financially. That’s why Adventist Health in Mendocino County donated $20,000 to support other community organizations in Mendocino County doing important work during the COVID-19 crisis.
“Many of these organizations provide critical services, such as shelter and food for those in need,” says Roseanne Ibarra, community integration director for Adventist Health in Mendocino County. “We are thankful for the work that these organizations do in our community, and we want to help them continue their work, particularly during this uncertain time.”
“During this health crisis, it is essential that families have a safe location to shelter in place. Ford Street Project, located in Ukiah, provides shelter to homeless families. Willits Daily Bread is another essential community partner, offering warm prepared meals to the hungry. Adventist Health extends our support to strengthen our community.”
Adventist Health awarded $10,000 to the Fort Street Project in Ukiah to help support their work in providing housing to families experiencing homelessness. Willits Daily Bread also received $10,000 to help support their work in providing meals to those in need. Instead of serving a sit-down meal as they always have, Willits Daily Bread has adapted to the pandemic by placing a self-serve table in front of the building where visitors can help themselves to food.
Cindy Savage, director of Willis Daily Bread says that the number of people they serve has grown significantly since the start of the pandemic. “I’m feeding an average of 50 (people) or a little bit more daily, and for this time of year, it’s not normal. Usually, we go from 35 to 40 in the middle of the month, and the end of the month will be more,” she explains.
Savage says they have been adding more healthy options to the meals they serve, such as salads, and fresh fruits.
As the need grows, Savage says, they are continually grateful for the donations so they can continue helping others. “We are grateful for the generosity of the community and organizations such as Adventist Health especially at a time like this.”
Savage says aside from the increased demand, they are also spending more on packaging since they can’t serve in the dining room, just yet. “The population we serve are in the high-risk populations, so we want to make sure we are ready and it’s safe for everyone when we resume normal services.”
“It is critically important that these community services and programs remain viable during — and after — the COVID-19 health crisis,” says Jason Wells, president for Adventist Health in Mendocino County. “If there’s anything that this challenge has made us realize, is that we are more connected than ever and that we have a powerful and resilient community that comes together when it matters most. Adventist Health is committed to being there for our community by supporting organizations doing this work and doing so is true to our mission of inspiring health, wholeness, and hope.”
