HOUSTON — Heading into the weekend, local groups and organizations are doing what they can to ensure no one goes hungry.
Food giveaways are in high demand now as people make sure they have enough to eat.
The turnout at food distribution programs has been enormous. People who took advantage of them said they’re taking all the help they can get during this unprecedented time.
For instance, it’s one of the signs that people are standing for Houston as the city works to stop the spread of coronavirus.
Bags of groceries were put into the trunk of cars at food distribution sites in and around Houston.
In Aldine, the school district and Houston Food Bank organized a drive-thru food giveaway to anyone who may need it.
“We are hoping to provide at least 250 community members groceries for the weekend," said Selina Chapa, Aldine ISD deputy superintendent. "In addition to that, we’re also offering backpacks to backpack buddies for any of the students that are in attendance (Friday).”
Air 11 captured the demand for food. It was so overwhelming, cars snaked through a parking lot and trailed off into the street.
Rosalyn Blake waited in the long line but said it was worth it.
“We’re going to make do with whatever we get and we appreciate the help, because it’s very, very helpful, and it comes in handy in this time,” Blake said.
Just north of downtown, the Salvation Army did its part to meet the need for food in the community.
“We’re in times right now like never before," said Major Zach Bell. “Understanding that even getting to the grocery store is harder than it’s ever been. So this is just to give that little bit of extra help to make sure that people do not go without during this time where we don’t know what’s happening."
Boxed food was delivered to those who showed up by car or on foot.
Groceries were also dropped off to those who are most at risk.
“Considering that they’re used to getting out and moving around, everybody is pretty much taking it well," said Leonard Eubanks with the organization. :It’s an adjustment, because they're saying mostly that it’s the seniors to be concerned about.”
It’s a feeling shared by many across Houston, but it’s the kindness of others that lets them know everything is going to be OK.
While there are plenty of people who are taking advantage of the food distribution programs, donations are still needed.
If you would like to help click here.
Coronavirus symptoms
The symptoms of coronavirus can be similar to the flu or a bad cold. Symptoms include a fever, cough and shortness of breath, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Some patients also have nausea, body aches, headaches and stomach issues. Losing your sense of taste and/or smell can also be an early warning sign.
Most healthy people will have mild symptoms. A study of more than 72,000 patients by the Centers for Disease Control in China showed 80 percent of the cases there were mild.
But infections can cause pneumonia, severe acute respiratory syndrome, kidney failure and even death, according to the World Health Organization. Older people with underlying health conditions are most at risk for becoming seriously ill. However, U.S. experts are seeing a significant number of younger people being hospitalized, including some in ICU.
The CDC believes symptoms may appear anywhere from two to 14 days after being exposed.
Human coronaviruses are usually spread through...
- The air by coughing or sneezing
- Close personal contact, such as touching or shaking hands
- Touching an object or surface with the virus on it, then touching your mouth, nose or eyes before washing your hands.
Help stop the spread of coronavirus
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Eat and sleep separately from your family members
- Use different utensils and dishes
- Cover your cough or sneeze with your arm, not your hand.
- If you use a tissue, throw it in the trash.
- Follow social distancing
Lower your risk
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
- If you are 60 or over and have an underlying health condition such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes or respiratory illnesses like asthma or COPD, the World Health Organization advises you to try to avoid crowds or places where you might interact with people who are sick.
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