Esperanza cooks have been delivering encouragement to doctors, nurses and other health care staff since the pandemic began in March 2020. You can help!
Here’s how we got started. In April 2020, when the COVID_19 pandemic was gaining momentum, Esperanza answered the call to spread compassion and hope in its wake. Jayne Peterson told us about the heart-breaking conditions at Banner University Medical Center and the Veterans Administration Hospital, where doctors, nurses and staff confronted COVID every day. Jayne asked if we could supply a lunch of homemade food and bottled drinks, so that the health care workers would know they were appreciated and loved. One symbolic lunch became a regular service we called Caring for the Caregivers.
This spring, when the virus seemed to be receding, we ended Caring for the Caregivers, knowing we might need to start up again. That day is here!
The Phoenix Veterans Administration Hospital is handling the new wave of covid infections on top of a high patient count due to delayed medical service requests. At the same time some health care workers are experiencing breakthrough infections, creating staffing shortages. And, food service is limited.
And so, we are rallying the Caring for the Caregivers troops once more. We are providing a luncheon to the VA twice a month, featuring a homemade entrée, sides, drinks and dessert.
Get Involved!
If you were a participating cook in the past, you have probably already heard from Chris Armfield. If you did not receive an email or if you want to join us now – email her at [email protected] We welcome whatever help you can give: join up for every week, every other week, occasionally or just once! Monetary contributions are also welcome, including supermarkt gift cards that can be used to buy ingredients and supplies.
Details:
• The meal itself consists of homemade food. Certain packaged snacks and drinks are also collected, but the meal itself is homemade.
• We do NOT have to package in individual portions anymore. Yay!
• Lunches will follow a broad menu: a main dish with sides. For this week we are doing burritos with sides and desserts. We’ll let you know what the menu is each week.
• Please email Chris with your planned contribution so we are not duplicating each other and that we cover all the bases.
• Drop off is at the church kitchen, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Mondays. Jayne picks up the food on her way to work on Tuesday.
Caring for the Caregivers is much more than a catering service. When we offer a meal, a drink and treats, we fill more than just stomachs. We fill hearts with our love and compassion.