Dan had been volunteering at the Neighborhood House food pantry when the pandemic struck; as the city began to lock down, he worried about the people who relied on the pantry and hoped there would be a way for him to continue working to combat food insecurity in Portland. Luckily, he did not have to worry for long. In real time, Dan watched Neighborhood House lead the way in quickly and creatively responding to the challenges the pandemic presented. Neighborhood House efficiently and effectively mobilized individuals, communities, and nonprofit groups to shift the food pantry from an in-person shopping model to a remote delivery system. Dan quickly stepped back in as a volunteer, assisting clients with the new system, fielding questions, and coordinating food donations via phone.
He enjoyed helping clients navigate the delivery program, regardless of their access to internet or regular phone service. Every call offering donations reaffirmed Dan’s belief in the kindness and generosity of the Portland community.
“I was initially concerned that Neighborhood House would be overwhelmed as winter came, that the already fragmented safety net would crumble,” Dan said. “However, seeing the resilience, dedication, and creativity of Neighborhood House’s staff, volunteers, and the entire Portland community, I felt fortunate to be part of the solution. Neighborhood House proved to me again that it is an efficient and creative organization that continues to represent the highest hopes and ambitions of the Portland community.”
Everyone deserves safe, convenient access to fresh and healthy food. Will you join Dan and the Neighborhood House team in combatting food insecurity by supporting the Partnership Campaign this year?