Connecting Through Words & Deeds
Monesha Goodwin is a county employee who isn't working at the moment. But that doesn't mean she hasn't found a job.
To help her senior neighbors limit their exposure to COVID-19, Goodwin has been taking shopping orders and making deliveries.
“I just know that I would want somebody to do it for my grandparents,” Goodwin said. “I'd hate for them to come in contact with so many different people.”
Goodwin said her grandparents, who live in West Virginia, are too far away for her to run errands for them every week.
She's decided to help where she can. About once a week, she calls two of her elderly neighbors in Center Township to see if they need groceries or supplies.
“Anything they need,” Goodwin said. “(I say,) 'Call me, let me know.' ”
One neighbor likes to buy in bulk. The other buys as needed. Both either send money with her or reimburse her later. Goodwin does most of their shopping at grocery stores or hypermarkets, Sam's Club, Walmart and Giant Eagle.
“So far, it's not been too bad,” Goodwin said. “Everybody's been wearing masks and gloves.”
When she leaves the store, she calls her neighbors to tell them she's headed to their homes. This gives them time to open their garage doors. Goodwin drops off the purchases and doesn't come in contact with them.
“They welcome the help,” Goodwin said. “(And) I do have time now.”
Goodwin said her neighbors try to tip her, but she doesn't want their money.
She said she's helping because she's able — and wants — to do it.
For anyone with time and means to help their neighbors, Goodwin encourages them to get started.
“Be safe,” Goodwin said. “And think of others in this time of need.”
