By: Mattan, Community Engagement Coordinator
Just as this week has been heating up in Toronto, so has my summer internship! This week, we had the opportunity to work with Access Alliance on a community vaccine clinic in Parma Court. Angela and I spent Wednesday afternoon giving out flyers to inform community members of the clinic at a food bank and in housing areas.
I was surprised to find that some people were reluctant to get vaccinated, despite the risks and harm that covid has had on the Victoria Park community. In one instance, a woman lining up for the food bank refused our flyer. Amazingly, she began speaking with her friend who was fully vaccinated who told her how important vaccines were to keep her safe. I try to empathize with these members of the community that are reluctant to be vaccinated. It can be hard to hear from strangers urging you to get vaccinated while you try to get some food for the week. I pray for those who remain unvaccinated as covid cases have increased this past week.
This week also marks the beginning of ET’s annual two-week Kid’s Camp that hosts the work that is being hosted online again this year. Angela and I are helping out in a supportive role online. I am very impressed with how the four children’s ministry interns are handling the online camp with all the challenges of managing things. I can see how God is working through the interns and to the campers through the many fun and creative activities. At the very least, my sister is having a great time, and the snacks are an added bonus.
Lastly, we have continued our partnerships with the St. Jude’s Foodbank and Hubsters meetings. There were more clients this week. As it has been explained to me, the foodbank typically receives more clients during one week of the month.Certain supplies such as hygiene products (deodorant, razors, soaps, etc.) tend to run low quickly as almost everyone requests these essential supplies.That is why Angela and I working on a virtual food bank needs list for Sunday’s bulletin.