Now more than ever we are seeing those in Barry County stepping forward to take care of others. While we abide by the social distancing regulations and the “Stay Home. Stay Safe.” order set forth by our Governor, we are finding the light coming through the darkness.
That light is shown through anonymous donors who graciously have gifted dollars back in to our community. Through collaborative efforts, the Barry County United Way has worked with these donors to purchase gift cards to local restaurants which in turn have been given as a “thank you” to our Barry County first responders, front line staff at local organizations, essential workforce employees and others who are fighting the COVID-19 pandemic for our community.
Lani Forbes, Executive Director of the Barry County United Way, “Our community is extremely generous and we are thankful for those who are choosing to support not only our local front-line workers, but also our local small business economy. The dollars spent on gift cards are going directly back in to restaurants across Barry County to ensure that they can survive this difficult time as well.”
Justin Straube, Owner of Seasonal Grille in Hastings and Culinary Arts Instructor said, “It amazes me on how much a community comes together in time of crisis. The outpouring of support and generosity blows me away. This is why I am proud to be a part of our community!”
There will never be enough words or expressions of gratitude that can truly show our thankful we all are for those facing the COVID-19 pandemic, but this is a small way that we can stand together as Barry County residents and support each other during this time. Please remember to support our local businesses that are continuing to operate in an unconventional manner and remember that with your help, we will all get through this together.
In addition to our local anonymous donors, multiple Barry County church organizations have chosen to support our local restaurants as well by purchasing gift cards and handing them out at the Hastings Fresh Food Initiative program.
Together, the Barry Community Foundation and Barry County United Way established an Emergency Disaster Fund to assist with emergency needs like COVID-19. If you would like to contribute to this fund, please visit www.barrycf.org or www.bcunitedway.org
If you are in need of emergency services for food, rent, utilities, etc. call 2-1-1 or the Barry County United Way at 269-945-4010.
