Mera Community Meals - Update 3

March 29 - This week was marked by increasing fear, uncertainty and anxiety for everyone. We continue to take each day at a time. We received more requests this week, so we doubled down in the kitchen. As of Friday, we cooked 2,980 meals, distributing them throughout the city. Working together in the kitchen provides a brief “escape” from these feelings, as we put our heads down and focus on the task at hand: cooking as much as we possibly and safely can. The sense of solidarity and generosity gives comfort and hope in surviving these times. This week we were incredibly fortunate to receive food donations from True Chesapeake Oyster Co. and the Hotel Revival/Coastal Sunbelt. As a result, we have funds to go through Wednesday (about 1,200 meals). In a time when we need to self-isolate and quarantine, it’s comforting to know our community is strong. In addition to providing meals to groups for distribution, we received requests from individuals looking out for their neighbors. We’re happy to provide folks with a hot dinner to enjoy, while providing income to both our workers and workers from businesses who have supported us. We’ve created an amazing new family and are thinking about how to safely sustain this project moving forward. We are so grateful for your donations, they are vital - we thank you for sharing and continuing to donate! As we see the needs and gaps  increase, and in a time when money is tight, we’re trying to consider ideas for more stable funding. We appreciate any leads or ideas folks may have. This project works thanks to mutual community connections. Thank you for your ongoing support. With immense gratitude, the Mera Kitchen & Friends team!