Reflections from the Front Lines

What has this mission meant to you? That's the question posed to the 35 Ohio National Guard members who, since March, have been filling a critical role in our food bank as the coronavirus has wreaked havoc on our hunger relief network. At the onset of the pandemic, our food bank's steady volunteer base was drastically reduced as older workers were now sheltering at home. In addition, we had to fully restructure our operations to provide safe, drive through distributions to maintain social distancing. At the same time, the demand for emergency food skyrocketed as families were left with nowhere else to turn. This created a critical gap that members of the Ohio National Guard were able to help fill. During Hunger Action Month in September, I am humbled to share reflections from Ohio National Guard members who have been instrumental in our ability to keep the doors open and to get food to those who need it most: "The time serving on this COVID-19/food bank mission has taught me so much as a leader, soldier and a citizen of the United States. Being able to lead a squad of soldiers during these very hard and trying times allows me to witness the payoff to the community. Helping fellow Americans by providing their next meals gives me great joy. I love seeing their faces light up as we load their cars. I would do this again in a heartbeat." "The mission at the food bank has been a touching experience. This is exactly what we signed up for, and I am honored to be able to say I helped serve our community in their time of need. I have always held myself with integrity, respect and understanding, but this experience took it to another level. I appreciate the opportunity to grow with my fellow soldiers and make an impact within the community." "Working at the food bank has been an eye-opening experience. It has been an incredible process, seeing how many people we have helped in a positive way. Watching so many people come together for the benefit of others is truly amazing especially in this time of need." "Having the ability and opportunity to serve my fellow Ohioans through the food bank during the unprecedented time has meant a tremendous amount to me. I will cherish this time being able to serve alongside my fellow brothers and sisters, and will pass along the wealth of knowledge I have gained on this mission to younger generations and explain the importance of taking the opportunities that arise to help those in need." "The time spent has trained me to be a better soldier. This time on orders has also introduced me to multiple communities that need help through this pandemic. I'm very grateful to help out on this important mission the state of Ohio has put out." "The food bank mission has been an incredible journey. Helping fellow Ohioans make it through hardship is one of the most fulfilling missions I have ever done.""We wanted to be a light in a dark time. Maybe when they look back in the history books, they'll say we made a difference." "The chance to help and serve the citizens of the great state of Ohio has been my distinct honor and privilege. The experience here at Second Harvest Food Bank will be one that is not soon forgotten." While this has been one of the most challenging experiences in my professional career, working with our National Guard soldiers has been a highlight of my time in food banking and I am grateful for their unwavering service. This exceptional group has brought so much to our organization and the community. The National Guard served locally under the outstanding and professional leadership of SFC Monique Bryant and CPT Stephanie Duarte. From day one, SFC Bryant and CPT Duarte worked closely with our team to integrate the National Guard into every facet of our operations: leadership, administration, warehouse, packing, processing, and distribution. Their partnership brought forth new ideas and efficiencies which allowed us to the serve tens of thousands of families seeking help during this tumultuous time. As Ohioans continue to face the relentless repercussions of COVID-19, we cannot do it without these Guard members. The need is still so great, and we urge our state and federal leaders to continue this critical lifeline for our food banks and for the thousands of families who are counting on us. Julie Chase-Morefield is the president and CEO of Second Harvest Food Bank of North Central Ohio.