A Time for Holiday Giving

I find it quite surreal to think that only 12 months ago we were all sitting together sharing cycling stories of 2019, indulging in decadent holiday treats and hoping to find the perfect piece of still usable cycling gear. Yet here we are trying to keep up with the weekly ‘new’ normal COVID-19 restrictions. While 2019 brought us a rising homeless population, 2020 brings us a growing population of housed families flooding food agencies with requests to help keep food on their tables. While our circles of direct contact with family and friends have significantly gotten smaller, agencies providing services to those we do not know have expanded significantly.

Obviously this year since we will not be gathering for our December club meeting, there is no central spot for members to drop off non-perishable food items, warm clothing, paper grocery sacks or reusable egg cartons for SnowCap. However, all those items are still greatly needed not only by SnowCap but many other charitable organizations. Listed below are a few of the organizations needing help. Check websites for drop-off locations and times; and a reminder that dollars donated to organizations have increased buying power ($1 can be turned into $5 of buying power for them). All have online donation access or addresses if you prefer to send checks.  ✎

• SnowCap, providing assistance since 1967 to East Multnomah County residents who face food insecurity. SnowCap is continuing to accept reusable egg cartons (12 or 18 count with lids) and paper grocery sacks as well as non-perishable foods. They are NOT accepting clothing at this time. (We dropped off 14 empty egg cartons and volunteers received them as if they were filled with gold! Apparently, they can buy eggs, but smaller cartons are a precious commodity.)
• Sunshine Division, helping Portland families since 1923, sponsored by the Portland Police Department.
• Meals on Wheels, serving more than 4,000 meals a day to seniors, a monetary donation is greatly appreciated.
• Oregon Food Bank, serving more than 260,000 people monthly. They serve a statewide network of 21 regional food banks.

These are just a few suggestions. If you wish to drop off food donations but seek an organization closer to home, check postings in your local community for food pantries still in operation. Some may also be accepting clothing for distribution to families.

So, is 2020 presenting us an opportunity with a silver lining? Perhaps. Consider redirecting monies spent on a huge family feast or a lavish restaurant meal towards a donation to fill a holiday food box for a family now facing tough times this winter.

We are all feeling the isolation being asked of us to get to the other side of the pandemic, but it doesn’t mean we have to stop sharing the holiday spirit of giving. The club has always stepped up to the challenge, so let’s make this our best showing ever! Thanking you in advance. Sending warm wishes and virtual hugs to all our friends and fellow cyclists for a healthy and safe 2021!

Joan Cullen & Dave Ek, Club Members