Brooklyn Center’s CEAP Adjusts Operations, Asks for Donations
CEAP, which serves Brooklyn Center and Brooklyn Park, has adjusted operations to respond to the coronavirus outbreak. Stephanie Lehman, director of operations, shares information on what to do if you need their services for the first time as well as the donations the nonprofit needs most.
Nonprofit CEAP in Brooklyn Center advises clients about a closure due to coronavirus.
The nonprofit has seen an increase in need, as people have been laid off and their hours have been changing. At the same time, they’ve seen a decrease in donations both from people and from grocery stores.
“We’ve also seen an increase in the community gathering to help us in being here and seeing how they can support us,” said Stephanie Lehman, director of operations at CEAP.
The nonprofit has also changed the way they are disseminating food. Usually they set up the facility like a grocery store, so people can “shop” and choose the items they need. Now, they’ve gone to a pre-pack model, where one person can pack at a time.
Meals on Wheels Changing Operations
CEAP operates Meals on Wheels and delivers meals to the elderly, which are considered one of the most vulnerable populations for COVID-19.
“This last week, on Wednesday, we delivered 1600 meals to our participants. That was a two week supply,” explains Lehman. “That allows them to stay indoors and stay as safe as possible.”
Instead of that daily check-in, CEAP is checking in by phone. They are also asking if seniors need supplies or other items and they will be delivered as needed.
Need food for the first time?
“Please call us,” said Lehman. “We do same day or next day appointments. If they call, we can get whatever information we need over the phone.”
Then, Lehman says they will schedule a time for you to show up. This is to control the traffic flow of people.
If people are sick, they are asked not to come in.
Find CEAP’s contact information here.
Want to help?
“We are asking first and foremost for financial donations,” said Lehman. “Our Meals on Wheels program, we are investing $20,000 between now and the end of the month to do this frozen meal option. That is money that there is a gap in our funds for that. We are raising money very hard for that.”
You can donate on our website, www.ceap.org/donate. Donate on your phone by texting “CEAPCOMMUNITY” TO 44-321. You can also find CEAP on GiveMN’s platform by searching for “Community Assistance Programs” or visiting www.givemn.org/event/ceapcommunitychallenge
