Before the Covid-19 Pandemic began, Sonja Lindegger was assisting clients with their food needs at the Newmarket Food Pantry. She is a Shopping Volunteer. She takes the client’s through the Food Pantry with a cart and re-useable bags so that they can choose the food that they would like to have. Sonja has been volunteering at the Newmarket Food Pantry since June of 2019. Her role has always been face-to-face with those people she served; however now, she is unable to see the clients in person.
“It was always face to face and I really enjoyed interacting with and getting to know so many clients”, says Sonja. “I often receive hugs. Some clients get choked up when they thank me at the end of their visit. So many of our clients are truly struggling and it really puts things into perspective for me. Some have physical and/or mental health issues, some have suffered trauma, others have lost work and/or loved ones, many are unemployed and struggle week to week just to survive. What we can offer them is a smile and a cart full of groceries and although it isn’t much, if it can help them get through another week or two, then we have done our job.”
Her role has changed. Due to the pandemic, Sonja now works packing boxes of food to have ready for the volunteers to deliver food to homes. Depending on the size of the family she is packing for will determine the amount of food and dry goods that she packs. Once the boxes are ready to be loaded, another volunteer will add produce, dairy and meat, just before the driver arrives for pick-up.
“My work now is obviously much different and although I do not have the personal interaction with the clients, I feel my job is just as important especially given the current situation.”
“I volunteer because I want to be able to give something back to my community. There are so many individuals and families in this community that are really struggling, and I feel fortunate to be able to do my small part.”
Sonja would normally volunteer one or two mornings a week for a few hours at a time however due to increased demand and shortage of available volunteers, she has been working five days a week.
Since the pandemic, Sonja appreciates spending time with her family and feels so blessed that her and her family are all healthy. Many of the older volunteers are unable to volunteer currently and she is fortunate enough to be able to help. Her and her family have lived in Newmarket for sixteen years.
Demand has gone up considerably for those needing help with food, especially now that many have lost their jobs and uncertainly lies as to how long the pandemic will last.
The Newmarket Food Pantry is always accepting donations if you are able to help. Due to Covid-19, monetary donations are preferred. Donations can be made through Canada Helps at https://newmarketfoodpantry.ca/donate/
Sonja Lindegger is a Newmarket resident making a difference year-round and one of the many selfless volunteers working to assist in the pandemic.
