In the past few weeks, a lot has changed. As the coronavirus outbreak develops, we’re all adjusting to new ways of working and living, and many of us are dealing with difficult and tragic situations. The pandemic has upended our lives and things are shifting day by day.
And yet, as we adjust to these changes, there are things we can learn from what is happening. There are things we can find comfort in. There are things we can draw hope from.
1. Our strength lies in our communities.
Across the world, communities have pulled together during this time of crisis to support others. From checking in on elderly neighbours to delivering shopping to someone in isolation, it has been inspiring to see communities working together.
The food banks in the Trussell Trust network were created by communities for communities and have always been run by local people for their local area. Now more than ever, their ability to continue to serve and support people in crisis is reliant on their local communities who have rallied to volunteer, donate, and advocate for food banks.
Though we may be physically distanced, people across the UK are working together to solve the challenges we’re facing and drawing strength from the connected communities we live in.
2. We are capable of incredible generosity.
While the news is dominated by stories of individuals stockpiling, food banks in the Trussell Trust network have witnessed nothing but generosity.
We have seen an amazing surge in support, allowing us to make sure that each and every food bank in our network receives the support they need. And thousands of you have generously volunteered your time to do what you can to help in your local area, with still more donating vital food supplies to keep food banks operational.
During this crisis, it is heart-warming to see that so many people are still so willing to give time, money, and food to support others.
3. We are resilient.
In the last few weeks, all of us have had to make changes, personally and professionally. Some of us might be working from home or furloughed. Some of us might be working more hours than ever in frontline services. Some of us might be adjusting to home-schooling or self-isolation.
But whatever adjustments are being asked of us, we’re facing up to them. The food banks in our network have faced huge changes to their ways of working, to how they obtain supplies, to what volunteers can do.
Their resilience and flexibility in the faces of such challenges is truly remarkable. Their dedication to doing whatever they can to support people in their communities, adjusting to shocks and changes quickly, shows us all what we’re capable of.
4. We can make a difference.
As individuals, we can all make a difference during the pandemic – whether it’s by volunteering or simply staying indoors. It may feel like we’re not doing enough but it really does all add up.
Without the support of the general public, the food banks in our network simply wouldn’t be able to continue to serve their communities. As the outbreak develops, it’s likely that more and more people will need to use food banks and without your support (whether it’s food, money, or time), people wouldn’t be able to access the services they so need.
Whether you’re supporting the Trussell Trust, your local food bank, or other charities, your actions have a real impact. Thank you!
If you want to help support food banks during the current outbreak and contribute to a future without the need for food banks, find out more about how to get involved here.
