Mutual Aid requests

At this time, our communities across Morris County are threatened by a rapidly-spreading disease potentially very dangerous for our neighbors who are older or have existing health problems. Contrary to what many people are claiming in our social media networks, this is a threat that must be taken seriously. Not with panic or clearing out store shelves of items we need to share, but by being practical, thoughtful, and generous with each other.

Even those of us who are younger and healthier and don't worry about catching COVID-19 themselves are responsible for helping to limit the spread to their families, friends, coworkers, teachers, and neighbors who may have a harder time with the disease if they get sick. Not only is that our moral obligation, but it does help to protect us too from other concerns - the quicker we slow the disease's progress, the fewer businesses and jobs we are going to lose. If you have to pay your rent, you should be concerned.

Unfortunately, the responses of most governments and corporations has been lacking or downright harmful. It is imperative that we take care of the most vulnerable first, and that includes our homeless neighbors and all who are working and struggling already to get by.

Luckily, we have greater power than we realize - the power of community. Mutual aid disaster relief is done to great effect in situations like this. We connect the people who are able to offer assistance to the people who need it, and we take care of each other so that all of us can heal.

Locally, the Green Party of Morris County and our Mutual Morris group are coordinating such efforts. We are seeking volunteers and donors to help us. Please email GPofMC@gmail.com to learn more or let us know what you can offer. This is not a political or partisan endeavor. This is for all of us, and all are welcome.

Some of our work:

• Buying food and other items for people unable to leave their homes, and having them shipped or dropping them off at their doors.
• Doing outreach in our towns, talking to passersby and sharing information, soap, oranges, or other items.
• Finding childcare options for parents or other services to directly assist .
• Telephone check-ins for people who are quarantined or otherwise isolated.
• Fundraising to help protect people from eviction at rent time.
• Anything else that might come up

Do you know someone who might need a delivery of items in Morris County? Please fill out this form or forward it to them.

Also, you are invited to join us for a recurring Sunday night 8PM Zoom online meeting to share ideas and camaraderie with each other. Email us at GPofMC@gmail.com to learn more and request login details.

This is not a time for anyone to be alone. You don't have to be.

Thank you all for your generosity. I look forward to connecting with you.

In solidarity,

Theresa Markila, chair of Green Party of Morris County

Learn more about COVID-19 at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html