COCHRANE— A local group has launched an initiative to offer support and show solidarity with those in isolation due to COVID-19 and small businesses in the Cochrane community.
Using funds from the support local business initiative, Support Cochrane Businesses 2021 will be delivering meals from Mehtab East Indian Cuisine, The Chopped Leaf Cochrane, Edo and Thanh Thy to families in isolation this week, said co-organizer Alf Leslie.
“If you’re in isolation, it’s just nice to know that there’s someone out there who cares,” Leslie said.
The goal is to remind people that even if they are stuck in isolation, they are not forgotten by the community.
The funds from Support Cochrane Businesses were used to purchase $10 lunch packages that could be delivered to those in need. Leslie added those who received a lunch box were able to place personal orders.
“The restaurants were really nice about letting people place orders and respecting dietary needs,” Leslie said.
Leslie is one of about five volunteers who will be delivering the lunch boxes around town.
Word of the project spread quickly, and they were able to connect and find those in need of food delivery.
Deliveries began on Monday (April 26), and to date, the initiative has been able to bring meals to around 60 people isolating in Cochrane.
Leslie said he was shocked to see there are that many people in isolation who participated in the deliveries.
“There might be some more we’re still looking around for people,” Leslie said.
Word of the project spread quickly, and they were able to connect and find those in need of food delivery.
He added it was important to also support local restaurants because they have been especially hard-hit by COVID-19 public health measures.
Families were selected for the project via nomination from other community members. Leslie explained it was important to honour people’s privacy as there is some hesitancy broadcasting one is in isolation.
“It’s a Catch-22 because quite a few people who are in isolation don’t really want people to know that they are in isolation,” Leslie said. “I just thought it would be a good idea if we could help them out somehow.”
He added the food that is delivered is carefully guarded and those who receive a lunch box will have their identity remain confidential.
The food delivery project is one of many ways the Business initiative is looking to support the community, Leslie said. They have also hosted online raffles for gift cards and other treats and hosted bottle drives.
To learn more or support the initiative visit the Support Cochrane Businesses 2021.
“Everyone has been really friendly and willing to help,” Leslie said. “It’s nice.”
