"When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would always tell me, 'Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.'" - Mr. Rogers
It's been a long two weeks. With more and more cases of COVID-19 being reported and tragically more deaths from this new virus that has ravaged areas around the world, there is a new normal here in South Jersey. Most families are forced to stay at home ... to teach their kids, to work, and to do many if not all of their activities at their place of residence. There are questions, there is uncertainty, and there is quite frankly a lot of anxiety, not just from the fear of the spread of the Coronavirus, but how the response to it will continue to change our every day lives. Through it all, there is one undeniably bright spot ... the beauty seen from the solidarity that comes about during a time of crisis. There are always people who stand up and prove time and time again that this world really isn't as bad as the headlines often depict. Case in point ... the following examples.
1. Feeding our Neighbors: After its shutdown, Ocean Casino Resort saw the opportunity to donate more than 6,000 pounds of food to the Community FoodBank of New Jersey Southern Branch, as well as paper products and cleaning supplies to the Atlantic City Rescue Mission. In addition, the casino's iconic ball will feature a globe graphic of solidarity that will be displayed nightly beginning at 7pm.
2. Taking care of Those Who Care for Us: Health provider AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center has been on the front line of response for the Coronavirus. Understanding the potential for an unprecedented need for certain items, the following businesses have donated masks and other supplies to help them in their response ...
· Atlantic Cape Community College School of Nursing, Mays Landing
· Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, Pleasantville
· Calvi Electric Company, Atlantic City
· East Coast Roofing and Siding, Mays Landing
· Friedrich & Dimmock, Millville
· GreenLife Energy Solutions, Egg Harbor Township
· Mainland Veterinary Hospital, Somers Point
· Massett Building Company, Pleasantville
· One Hour Heating and Air Conditioning, Pleasantville
· Pinky’s Nails (multiple locations)
· Viking Yachts Yacht of New Gretna
3. Music Therapy: There is power in music. Studies have proven the benefits of music when it comes to the art of relaxation and stress reduction. Kudos to Galloway Township Public
Schools Vocal & Instrumental music teachers, who have been taking turns to bring their students (and anyone else who cares to listen) what they call a "Moment of Peace" on their Facebook page. Kids can hear a short song either sung or played by one of their favorite music teachers.
4. The Kindness of Strangers: Yes, there are now security guards in our supermarkets, but in our new world of one roll of toilet paper per customer, I have seen quite a few instances of generosity. Customers are helping one another ... offering to carry bags, put things in carts, or point them in the direction of a hot commodity item. There is even a story I recently heard from a friend about a man who purchased two gift cards at a supermarket courtesy counter only to give them back to the store with one instruction - give them away to customers who need help.
The world is a little crazy right now, but the good in this world far outweighs the bad. Just remember, we are all in this together. When you feel a little overwhelmed, just remember to look for those helpers. Trust me, you'll find them. #SouthJerseyStrong
