Food Pantry flips script on curbside pickup concept

While many people are supporting local restaurants by taking advantage of their curbside pickup services, the Westlake Food Pantry has flipped the script and is using the curbside pickup concept to benefit locals in need, according to news release. On May 14, the Community West Foundation Westlake committed a $1,000 grant to support the Senior and Community Department’s new Friday Curbside Pickup program, the release said. The initiative offers residents facing economic struggles related to the novel coronavirus pandemic a new safe and discreet avenue to utilize the city’s Food Pantry. Friends and family members of residents who are struggling but unable to pickup food items themselves also are encouraged to register to use the program. It’s a concept that has gained traction in other parts of the country and the Community Services staff in Westlake hopes it can become the norm in Northeast Ohio, the release said. In Westlake, the Community Services Department intends to continue to keep the program going as long as the demand is there. Residents can register through an online portal hosted on the city’s website. There they can utilize a “privacy option” if they do not wish to share their name or contact information, the release said. By providing that option, staffers hope to reach those concerned about being identified, especially those unaccustomed to seeking out help. Westlake residents can register online for a specific time slot every Friday through the end of May (and possibly beyond) during which they can drive up and select from various donated perishable and non perishable food items. Food is being made available every Friday and currently, there are no qualifications other than residency in Westlake. The amount of food the department can provide each recipient is determined by their family size – signs are posted with amounts. To comply with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendations and state guidelines, participants must follow the department’s social distancing instructions and wear a mask when picking up food. Gloves will be provided. Also, those making a pickup should bring only themselves and one other person. The pickup location is Westlake Senior and Community Services Center, 29694 Center Ridge Road, the corner of Crocker Road and Center Ridge Road. The first pickup date was May 15.

Residents currently are able to register for pickup dates on May 22 and 29 at www.cityofwestlake.org/Activities/Activity/Detail/Curbside-FoodPickup-for-Westlake-Reside-226

The department recently began accepting donations online to support social services programs, as well as its enrichment activities: https://www.cityofwestlake. org/783/Make-a-Donation.