This is an excerpt from the Run Ottawa blog post titled: ‘Local Love in a Global Crisis, how our communities are responding to Covid-19.’
Before the World Health Organization declared Covid-19 a Global Pandemic, local public health and social agencies, including United Way East Ontario, banded together to prepare to help the underserved face the pandemic. Their efforts created a buzz and several grassroots efforts have risen to help; those who are able are stepping up to create Local Love in a Global Crisis. This campaign offers deliveries of grocery and pharmacy items for seniors and adults with physical disabilities, telephone safety checks and Meals on Wheels.
United Way East Ontario also acts as a hub for those needing to find support for domestic violence, local food banks, and community mental health resources. In times of crisis, having resources in one trusted place removes obstacles that seem insurmountable in these unprecedented times. There are offers of dog walking, conversation, supply shopping and drop-offs from community members like you and me, simply offering their time to their neighbours that need a hand. It’s not unlike watching a group of strangers help dig out a car in the middle of a snowstorm and these efforts are completely community-driven.
Among United Way’s dedicated volunteers, staff and fundraisers is runner Anna Belanger. Belanger has chosen the Scotiabank Ottawa ½ Marathon for her 8th year of participation in Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend, now gone virtual.
