PURCELLVILLE, Va. March 19, 2020 — A meeting was held on March 16, 2020 at The Tree of Life (ToL) Ministries office in Purcellville to discuss aid to at risk seniors. In attendance were Purcellville’s Mayor Kwasi Fraser, Pastors David Janney and Cory Welch of the Purcellville Baptist Church, the following Tree of Life Ministries staff: Paul Smith/Executive Director, Dell Nunaley/Director of Operations, Susannah Lee/Regional Director, Jennifer DelGrande/Regional Coordinator, Stacy Chase/Director of Relief Branch, Richie Soltas/Partner Care Coordinator, and Marlena E. Bremseth of Bremseth Associates Inc.
Noting the timeliness of the meeting, Executive Director Paul Smith, backed by other staff members, reported that ToL will continue to accept food donations, to deliver food as needed, and to offer “to go” food on Thursdays. Further, current work force connections and financial coaching telephone help will continue, inquiries about housing will be available, health education updates and medical vouchers (urgent care, eye wear, and dental) will be available, and relief funds will continue to be offered. While volunteers are not needed at this time, non-perishable food and monetary donations are needed not only to feed seniors but also families with school aged children now homebound who normally receive school breakfasts and lunches.
Acknowledging that social distancing is hampering the ability to do more, Mayor Fraser indicated that he has access to the Town’s committee, commissions, and boards should the need to augment volunteer efforts arise. He also identified public safety as a key priority and stated that the Purcellville Police Department is fully engaged and executing plans to ensure the safety and welfare of all of the Town’s citizens.
The meeting concluded with all attendees in agreement that, moving forward, informing senior citizens about available services/resources to ensure their well-being as well as forging partnerships with other churches and communities will be the collective next steps to combat the effects of COVID-19.
