By Sean Delaney
Among the challenges food banks are experiencing, the COVID pandemic has also created a significant loss of volunteers, which threatens the ability of food banks to remain open.
Brigette Contento has been a volunteer at the W.A.E.S (Weston Area Emergency Support) before and since this pandemic started. Although they are ready, willing, and take great pleasure in contributing and helping, she is often left with feelings of helplessness.
“To actually be there at the food bank and witness the shortage of food along with the increasing numbers of families, seniors and children that rely on the food bank, it is overwhelming and heart-wrenching,” said Contento.
Not to stand by and watch, she felt she needed to do more, and initiated the Red Bag Donation Food Drive.
Together with the help of community members and their children, she delivered empty bags, door to door, hoping to have them filled with nonperishable food items. This food drive raised 5000 pounds of food within three communities. And while the food collection was a necessity, it also helped to bring the communities together in unity and to help teach children the importance of helping those in need.
Brigette is willing to help anyone who would be interested in organizing the Red Bag Donation Food Drive in their community. They can be reached by phone or email.
You can reach Brigette Contento at: 647 889 7411 Or, brigettecontento@rogers.com
