Get ready for the new normal

The community center is closed to public gatherings like senior lunches and food bank pickups, but those services are still available to locals who need them on a drive-up basis.

“We have changed procedures and people are no longer able to come into the community center and pick what they want,” said food bank volunteer Henry Rosenthal. He said volunteers had contacted what clients they could and developed lists of needed items which will be boxed up and available for pickup. “All they have to do is stop by and we will take it to their car,” Rosenthal said. Baked goods and produce will be added by volunteers as available. “If you need anything else, give me a list and we’ll drop it at your house.”

Food bank pickups are Wednesday from 8:30 to 11 a.m. and the food bank is now also coordinating Meals on Wheels deliveries. For more information, contact Rosenthal at 360/945-1711.

Senior center volunteer coordinator Madeleine Anderson said senior meals will be available at the front door of the community center for distribution from noon to 12:30 on Wednesdays and Fridays. “Give us a call so we have an idea of how many people will be wanting a meal,” Anderson said. “Drive up to the front door from the library side with your donation ready and we will place your meal on the passenger seat to minimize contact.” Volunteers are also available to deliver the meals to community members who are not ill but have trouble leaving their homes.

Circle of Care is also changing their operations in response to changing public health requirements. While regular Thursday bus trips to Bellingham are discontinued, Annelle Norman said the organization’s bus can safely accommodate the driver and three passengers while maintaining adequate social distancing and community members can request a ride if they need to get to an appointment in Bellingham. “If someone has an essential appointment we will do our best,” Norman said, adding it is preferable if appointments are made on Thursdays to accommodate the schedules of volunteer drivers. Circle of Care also continues to provide a prescription pickup service. For more information, call 360/945-5222.