MILWAUKEE — For the third day in a row, Wisconsin health officials reported an increase of more than 2,000 positive COVID-19 cases. It comes after two days of record-setting numbers.
Now 6 months into the pandemic, a team in Milwaukee's Garden Homes neighborhood community is offering neighbors some relief. New Hope Missionary Baptist Church worked with some community groups to give away more than 300 bags of essential items including those in demand like soap, disinfectant, and paper towels.
"Help them through what we’re going through because everyone’s under stress and strain," said Pastor Archie Ivy.
It was a small gesture that organizers hope makes a big difference.
"That’s the main goal to help people to have those resources to allow them to have to go out in the store less," said Carlissa Tucker, one of the volunteers.
Another volunteer, Tony Mayo, said people were lined up before the giveaway started at 11 a.m.
"It tells me that everyone is hurting and we have to make sure that we do more," said Tony.
Louisa Monroe, who said she had COVID-19 6 months ago, was one of many people who came out. She wants more people to take the pandemic seriously.
"It’s a big deal. We just had a friend that died three weeks ago," Louisa said.
While this effort is not going to put an end to the pandemic, organizers hope it offers even a small piece of relief.