Volunteers needed throughout NEPA as restrictions relax, people go back to work
LUZERNE COUNTY (WOLF) — As things continue to reopen across the state and people get back to work, local groups want you to know there are still many in need and volunteers are wanted to help them out.
"There's really a need in our community, especially around the issues of food insecurity that really has not slowed down," explained Bill Jones, the president and CEO of the United Way of Wyoming Valley.
It's a need that's clear from groups like Dinners For Kids.
Just two volunteers were at Ollie's Restaurant Wednesday, putting together meals to serve 160 kids.
"I was working from home and I thought, 'well geez, I could maybe even start during my lunch and donate an hour because I live so close,' and that's how it started," recalled Doreen Kolojejchick, a volunteer from Larksville.
People like Doreen are filling in a gap.
"A lot of our volunteers are older or elderly, who are retirees, and we had lots of them helping out," explained Bob Borwick, the board president for Dinners For Kids. "But because of the pandemic, a lot of their family felt it was inappropriate for them to be working in an environment where people are working close together."
Doreen's husband, who she was volunteering with, is already back at work.
She's expecting to go back soon too.
That will leave fewer people to pack and deliver these meals.
"They need volunteers because that work is critically important," said Jones.
The need goes beyond just food.
That's why after having to cancel their annual Day of Caring, the United Way of Wyoming Valley is encouraging people to do random acts of caring starting Thursday and going through Sunday.
"We're gonna be delivering some school supplies to people who don't have the," said Jones, speaking about what he had planned. "I've got some other things up my sleeve as well."
Post a picture online and you could even win a gift certificate to a local restaurant.
If you're looking to do more, you can just call 211 for info. All help is welcome.
"The world needs some caring and kindness right now," said Jones. "We could all do our part to do something nice for someone else."
The United Way also says they expect an influx of calls once the moratorium on evictions is lifted.
Donations are welcome to help people with that.
If you yourself need help, you can also call 211 to find resources.
To volunteer with Dinner For Kids, contact (570) 288-6609.
