COVID and Crisis Resources For Network Partners
Our Response
As we come closer to a post-pandemic reality, we know that economic effects for our neighbors will linger for some time, even as many Federal and State supports expire. This page is Vermont Foodbank’s response to network partners’ need for guidance and resources for pandemic response, including health and safety, operations and resources for you and the community members you serve.
This one sheet flyer lists resources and programs that can help people find food and save money through various ways.
Please note: It is our intention that the information on these pages points to the most current guidance provided by the CDC and Vermont Department of Health, however the official sites for these organizations takes precedent over the information provided here. We recommend monitoring these authoritative sources regularly.
A Few More Important Reminders
- Know the facts and stay informed.
- Continue to treat everyone who visits with respect and dignity. Coronavirus does not target specific populations, socioeconomic status, ethnicities or racial backgrounds.
- We would welcome your suggestions and guidance as you/your organizations may have information or ideas that would be of use to us. Please contact csugarman@vtfoodbank.org.
Please keep the Foodbank apprised of the situation in your communities and within your organizations. The Foodbank is a part of a statewide disaster preparedness and response team and it will be important for us to know when there is a need to call on this team for support.
Health and Safety
- Use up to date CDC information for food pantries along with the following resources to help each other stay healthy and safe.
- Protect yourself and others – Stay up to date on vaccinations. Get tested when needed. Stay home if you’re sick or exposed. Wearing masks is now an optional precaution influenced by risk factors.
- Promote and enable good hygiene among staff and volunteers.
- Cleaning – How to clean and disinfect, develop a schedule, and clean if someone gets sick. Create a regular cleaning plan for staff and volunteers, see this example.
Operations Guidance
- Vermont Occupational and Safety and Health Administration’s (VOSHA) site for recommendations related to COVID-19
- As an essential service, we are not limited in occupancy except by the 6 foot spacing requirement and ability to follow all the safety guidance. Use this spacing occupancy calculator to help adhere to distancing guidelines, when they are in place.
- Drive Up – Diagrams and one-page checklists for managing each type of distribution event.
- Home Delivery– Detailed guidance on how to organize a home delivery program with a focus on health and food safety.
Supplies and Resources
Posters and Printouts
- Distancing, Masks, Stay Home Flyer (Vermont)
- CDC printouts, including translated versions
PPE, Cleaning, Safety
If local supplies are low or you need to order larger quantities, these suppliers carry cleaning, safety, PPE, barriers, etc.
More Food Resources
As the pandemic and its economic impacts persists, these resources can help neighbors to meet food and other personal needs:
Stretch Your Budget
This one sheet flyer lists resources and programs that can help people find food and save money through various ways.