Kindness has not fallen victim to the virus

By Karen Thompson
Features Reporter
April 12,, 2020

I looked around and what I saw was people helping each other make it through the Corona Virus pause in our everyday lifestyles. Here are a few of the acts of kindness I have found.

A Saturday morning Farm Share drive-thru at the MLK Center providing 500 fresh, healthy food packages to 200 families by volunteers from the Elm Street Sportsman’s Association and UMC Trinity.

Hundreds of sewers, crafting masks and gowns for the police, health care workers, senior organizations, hospice, family and friends.

Talented local musicians sharing their talents by live-streaming concerts.

First Port Bank teaming up with Timotis Seafood Shak to offer $500 in meals to hard-working area health care teams.

Castaway Car Wash providing a day of free car washes for healthcare and medical professionals.

Wild Amelia will deepen our inherent link with nature by presenting 10 days of new discoveries in an on-line series called Wild Amelia Nature Connection.

Story and Song featuring comforting, informative on-line Story Hours for both children and adults.

A video of dedicated Emma Love teacher, joyously singing a song of love and hope to their Pirate families.

Hundreds of residents continuing to patronize their favorite restaurants by ordering take-out meals. (On a personal note and inspiration for this story: Last night I ordered carryout from a local hot spot. When I was leaving the owner told me that because of his carryout customers, he has been able to keep 12 employees on his payroll.)

That experience awakened me to how much we depend on each other for mental, physical and financial security in good times and in bad. I am also in awe of how technology is helping connect in this difficult time.

The Observer would like to hear about acts of kindness you have witnessed and/or participated in around the area. Share a photo with caption or a short story to [email protected].

Editor’s Note: Karen moved to Fernandina Beach eight years ago after working in Chicago as a senior public relations specialist for the Midwestern regional office of the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency. Prior to that, she was an editor, columnist and writer for a chain of Chicago newspapers , an account executive for several Chicago public relations agencies and proprietor of her own pr/marketing business. She grew up and earned her journalism degree in Wisconsin.