By Regina McConnell
East Madison Community Center
The East Madison Community Center (EMCC), along with the rest of the world, is facing new challenges and experiencing a new normal. Behind the closed doors of EMCC, staff is providing food and educational resources for community members during the stay-at-home orders.
Despite the unusual circumstances, EMCC has adjusted the food pantry to continue serving those in need. The usual “shopping style” food pantry is no longer possible, so it has become an outdoor, drive-up/walk-up pantry distributing pre-boxed food.
Through the generosity of Second Harvest Foodbank, EMCC has been able to continue serving over 60 EMCC families per week and has expanded to serve 50 additional households in partnership with Hawthorne Elementary School. The Community Action Coalition continues to provide commodities and bread, which supplements the pre-packed food from Second Harvest.
New collaborative partnerships have enhanced the food pantry during this trying time. Old National Bank generously donated grocery bags to pre-pack bread. The Tampon Taskforce of Madison provided feminine products.
The Truax Community Garden is beginning to take shape as gardeners start tending their plots to provide food for their families. One person said the garden is a form of therapy and a way to reduce stress from being home all the time.
The Children’s Garden is off to a slow start because it is normally tended by the afterschool and summer camp children. Fortunately, plants have been donated by the Oakhill Correctional Institution Horticulture Department. Rooted has been a supportive force this season in getting the garden open
With schools closed, EMCC has been assisting the Madison Metropolitan School District with breakfast and lunch distribution during the week. The Predolin Foundation partnership with Second Harvest has also provided fresh fruit to be given to the children’s families when they pick up meals.
The EMCC youth program staff has been working continuously to provide school supplies, educational resources and incentive programs for completed educational work. For many households, access to the internet and electronic devices is a barrier to virtual learning, and staff is working with the City of Madison Community Development Authority to break down these barriers.