CCWVa chief executive officer, hands a box of pantry food to Sharon Rosen, a CCWVa neighbor/client.

Finding Connection Amid the Coronavirus Pandemic

By Katie Hinerman Klug

While the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic reminds us of our human fragility, it has also shown how truly connected we all are.

From our health, to the economy, to the environment, we are seeing how every person’s actions impact us all. And we are dependent on one another to get through this health crisis.

Catholic Charities West Virginia (CCWVa) continues to stand with people who vulnerable. During this time of uncertainty, there’s a fundamental truth that gives us hope – that together we can do extraordinary things.

 

Beth Zarate, CCWVa chief executive officer, hands a box of pantry food to Sharon Rosen, a CCWVa neighbor/client.

Providing Food

Although perhaps less recognizable behind face masks, our CCWVa staff continue to provide the same compassionate care for those who are struggling.

“I come here because I need food… and because of the people in there,” said Sharon Rosen, a neighbor/client at the Catholic Charities Neighborhood Center.

 

 

Jennifer Davis, CCWVa HomeCare caregiver, cares for 91-year old Walter Scott in his home seven days a week.

Providing Care

Walter Scott and Jennifer Davis are a unique pair with a special relationship. Davis, a CCWVa HomeCare in-home caregiver, sees Scott as more than a client. “He’s like my dad. I’ve kind of adopted him,” Davis said.

“She’s been a godsend,” said Scott. “She does everything – laundry, shopping…”

Wearing personal protective equipment, Davis has continued to care for Scott seven days a week during the pandemic, enabling him to remain at home.

 

CCWVa adult learner Alison Scarberry continues to pursue a career in nursing by studying online guided during the pandemic.

Providing Learning

Alison Scarberry is an adult learner at the Catholic Charities Center for Community Learning and Advancement in Huntington. Alison passed her high school equivalency examination in December 2019, and began pursuing a career in nursing in 2020.

Alison has continued to study during the pandemic with virtual assistance from our CCWVa Adult Education Instructor.

“Alison is really committed to her future,” said Melody Nelson, CCWVa Adult Education Instructor. “She had worked and continues to work towards her goals!”

 

Webster County residents received food from a drive-thru food pantry.

Providing Community

With few local stores for food and supplies, the COVID-19 pandemic has brought unique challenges for rural communities. CCWVa partnered with Mountaineer Food Bank to host a drive-thru food pantry for over 200 Webster County residents.

“Thanks for providing this opportunity,” said local resident Kennetha Parker-Howes. “It was much needed to keep our communities safe.”

 

 

Catholic Charities West Virginia Commitment

As the coronavirus continues to impact us all, our neighbors who are struggling will continue to rely on Catholic Charities. They need food. They need care. They need support. We will continue to be there for them.

We ask you to help us help others by making a donation today. We rely on your continued support to maintain our care for the health, safety and well-being of people in West Virginia.

Donate today online or mail a check to Catholic Charities West Virginia at 200 Main Street, Wheeling, WV 26003. Thank you for your generosity and compassion!

 

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