Urban League hosts food drive pickup amid COVID-19 pandemic
INDIANAPOLIS (WISH)– The Indianapolis Urban League on Tuesday had a food pickup drive hoping to serve 500 families in need of a meal.
CEO Tony Mason says hunger during the COVID-19 pandemic was something organizers recognized as an emergency after more than 400, 000 Hoosiers filed for unemployment.
“A lot of people in Indianapolis right now don’t have resources, money, and don’t know where to go,” he said. “You see the need out in the community and so when we talk and start to think about families who may be less fortunate. People are struggling.”
The Urban League along with Second Helpings and Gleaners Food Bank came up with an idea for a food drive pickup. The event was first-come, first-served for anyone in the city, and the people in need drove up in large numbers.
“It was kind of overwhelming to see but it was also wonderful to see that people are taking advantage of this service,” Mason said. “As early as 6:15 a.m. cars started arriving and we started at 11 a.m.”
“Oh, my gosh, I mean traffic coming from everywhere,” said Maria Wiley, chair of the Urban League board. “Even the police came out to help us direct.”
One vehicle after another, they served with more than 500 families in just over an hour. Some of the meals were even preprepared so parents with a family of four don’t have to worry about cooking. Mason was proud of what the community organizations accomplished together.
“It’s amazing to see,” he said. “If nothing else, it touches you to know that you’re able to make a difference like this.”
However, with the COVID-19 pandemic still a threat, he believes they’ll need to count on the community’s help now more than ever.
“For those of you in the community that are blessed to have your jobs and to be able to support community organizations, get out there and make a donation today,” Mason said.
Click here to donate or find out how to volunteer with the Urban League.