By Max Grossman and Carlee Brown
Ward 6 Mutual Aid (W6MA) is an all-volunteer grassroots group working with Black and Brown community organizations to help keep our communities safe. Over the past six months, the Southwest Pod of W6MA has partnered with Christ United Methodist Church on a community food and supply drive to serve our neighbors in response to COVID-19. In addition, thanks to the continued generosity of our Southwest neighbors, who donate items at the Southwest Farmers Market on Saturdays, we also distribute fresh produce on Sunday mornings between 9-10:30 a.m.
Interested in ways to help? There are several ways to show your support:
- Donate groceries and supplies. Come say hi and consider donating fresh produce bought at the Southwest Farmer’s Market on Saturdays between 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
- Contribute to our “Back to School Bash.” W6MA is working to ensure Ward 6 students have the resources they need to be successful as they start their school year. Alongside partner organization Serve Your City, we are providing backpacks that include digital devices, school supplies, personal protective equipment, and fun activities/surprises. Please visit http://dcbacktoschoolbash.com for more information.
- Provide or help make masks. Masks are and will continue to be the best barrier to prevent the spread of the virus and keep Southwest safe! If you are interested in donating masks, sewing masks, or assembling pre-cut masks, please email lizmariapen@gmail.com. We are in particular need of kids masks.
- Volunteer. The Southwest Pod of W6MA is also seeking volunteers to help staff our local food pantry and help with our farmer’s market tabling and food distribution. If you are interested in getting involved, please contact karenlmcmanus@gmail.com.
Those in the community seeking assistance can access goods and services through the following means:
- If you or someone you know has a critical need, call the Ward 6 Mutual Aid Hotline at 202-683-9962. You can request food, masks, cleaning supplies, and other goods for delivery.
- Obtain fresh produce from W6MA’s community drive on Sundays from 9-10:30 a.m., at the Christ United Methodist Church (900 4th St. SW; use courtyard entrance near library).
- Obtain groceries from the Christ United Methodist Church’s 5000 Ministry Food Pantry on the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of the month from 9-11 a.m. (courtyard entrance).