By Max Grossman and Carlee Brown
Ward 6 Mutual Aid (W6MA) is an all-volunteer grassroots group working with Black and Brown grassroots organizations to help keep our communities safe. The Southwest Pod of W6MA is partnering with Christ United Methodist Church (CUMC) to serve our neighbors with food and supplies throughout the ongoing covid crisis.
This month kicks off the Southwest D.C. Fall Food Drive. W6MA and CUMC want to stock up for the winter to have a reliable, nutritious supply of food as the economic impacts of covid drag on. From Nov. 9-30 W6MA and CUMC will be accepting donations of:
- Non-perishable foods: canned tuna and chicken, vegetables (low salt), fruit (natural juices), soup, chili, beans, peanut butter, pasta sauce, hot or cold breakfast cereal, pasta, rice mixes, graham crackers, breakfast bars
- Toiletries: regular size and travel sizes of shampoo, conditioner, lotion, toothpaste, toothbrushes, depends, diapers
- Winter clothes for unhoused neighbors: men’s and women’s warm coats, gloves, hats, scarves, socks, boots
Neighbors can support the food drive by:
- Donating non-perishable foods, toiletries, and clothes at Christ United Methodist Church (900 4th St. SW; courtyard entrance near library) on Monday/Wednesday/Friday 3-6 p.m. or Saturday 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
- Hosting a donation box for toiletries and non-perishable foods in your building. W6MA will provide a box and coordinate periodic donation pickup. Giving online at ServeYourCityDC.org.
W6MA and CUMC appreciate the generosity of Southwest D.C. The community continues to help provide fresh produce, pantry staples, and cleaning supplies to families throughout the year. You’ve also helped provide more than 50 students with digital devices for virtual learning this school year. Thank you!
If you or someone you know needs support, call the Mutual Aid Hotline at (202) 683-9962 or email ward6mutualaid@gmail.com. Want to volunteer, host a box, or just learn more? Contact Karen at karenlmcmanus@gmail.com.