With everything that has been going on in the world, it can be a little overwhelming and intimidating; however, it is important to remember that the people who are the most likely to be affected by COVID-19 are the ones who are unable to go into public places such as grocery stores for fear of getting sick. There are also people that are unable to purchase the items that they require due to financial struggles. Therefore in times like this, we all need to come together to ensure that everyone is taken care of and has the items they need to stay safe and healthy.
Because of this, one local resident; Wanda Aamodt, has decided to step up to help spread a little humanity throughout the community. Aamodt operates Respite Care Services in Martensville, and wants to help seniors and low income families both in our community, and the surrounding area.
“Due to this virus and isolation precautions, our respite clients and members wanted to help fundraise for the seniors and low income families in and around Martensville. This all came about from a story that we had heard about in Saskatoon where a woman with small children at home had taken the bus to go get groceries on a day that she was able to. While at the grocery store, she was unable to get toilet paper and other items on her list because they were sold out. Another woman on the bus saw that she was upset and after hearing her story, wanted to help so she got her address and went out to pick up the toilet paper and other items that were needed and dropped them off,” Aamodt explained.
After hearing this story, Aamodt, who has worked in senior care for years, wanted to do something to help those in our own community who have went to the store and found that the items they required were sold out, and for those unable to go to the store due to mobility issues or due to precaution.
From now until Thursday, March 19th, those interested in contributing can donate non-perishable items, cleaning supplies, tea, money, etc. to this cause. Aamodt, along with her respite clients and some volunteers, will be putting care packages together and delivering them to those in need on Friday, March 20th. “I would like to be able to include some sweet treats and maybe a flower for each person when doing deliveries as well. Some of these people have been cooped up so it will be nice to add a little brightness to their day.”
“There are people that are in a compromised situation and instead of panic and fear in a time like this we need to be practicing kindness and understanding. It is something that we should always be doing, but especially in times like this. There is a lot of bad in the world, but there is just as much good; if not more, and we need to use the good to outshine the bad,” Aamodt noted.
Aamodt along with her family, who have been residents of Martensville since 1999, often volunteer their time to help out with community events and fundraisers. “I truly believe in supporting your community and lending a hand to those that are in need. People coming together can make a big difference in the lives of others. We just need a little positive thinking in our community and to be more supportive, share and be respectful of others.”
Items can be dropped off at 526 Klassen Cres in Martensville, or E-transfers can be sent to waamodt@sasktel.net. All that donate to this cause will be entered to win three hours of home cleaning or car detailing services.
