Clare Collins ‘23
Alex Gobran ‘23
Community service at EA, like many service organizations, is trying to do more than ever right now because of the COVID-19 pandemic. With the virus affecting the most vulnerable of populations, Philadelphia has faced much adversity during this pandemic. Rebecca Brinks, EA Community Service Coordinator, emphasizes the importance of community service and advocates for student education on imperative issues that can be improved through outreach. She notes, “One of the most pressing needs is food insecurity because there are so many people whose economics have changed because of COVID. Food is always a need.” With Philadelphia ranked as one of the top ten most food insecure cities in the United States, she believes it is necessary to reach out to local organizations and help in whatever ways possible, whether it is donating groceries on a weekly basis or volunteering at food pantries.
In preparation for the start of school, Brinks worked with the Community Service Corps over the summer to plan and test safe community service initiatives. Grace Barton ‘21, a member of the Community Service Executive Board, explains, “[We] discussed options for what we are able to do with the restrictions and pandemic this year. Last spring, we were given lists which included how we can help our greater community as a whole safely from home, and many took this opportunity by doing things as small as making masks or baking goods.” Some students began their own initiatives to support others during COVID-19. Riya Muhkerjee ‘23 started an organization over the summer called Community Organization Supporting and Serving Youth (COSSY). COSSY sells adjustable masks of different patterns and sizes, and for every mask, they donate one to children’s hospitals. Muhkerjee says, “It’s so crucial to help those less fortunate during their times of need. I realized that a small amount of effort can make a big difference in somebody’s life.”
In times like these, the EA community can come together and care for the surrounding populations that might be suffering. Jill McEntee ‘21, Executive Board member, states, “Anyone who is willing to contribute can make a big difference. Nothing is just dissolving because of COVID. Our community partners are still there, and matters regarding community service have not disappeared.” Another Executive Board member, Kathryn Lynn ‘22, shares, “Checking in on people who are having a hard time with everything going on is a simple and nice act that can really make a difference in these difficult times.”
If any EA students are looking for opportunities to serve their community, the Community Service Corps is offering numerous socially-distanced options, such as baking goods for UCHC, tutoring elementary schoolers online, and making care packages for people in the hospital or in retirement homes. Brinks and members of the Community Service Corps are directing students towards these impactful opportunities and continuing to expand safe service options. Further, form deans will include possible community service opportunities in their weekly emails to keep students up to date on what they can do to help their wider community.
