COVID-19 Task Force partners with Kroc Center, local stores
The Coeur Group has ramped up efforts to help elderly and at-risk community members by partnering with the Kroc Center and local stores. Members had a virtual meeting this week to discuss the details. Top row, from left: Brian Babb, Bobby Myers, Luke Booth. Second row, from left: Jeff Petroskie, Conor Hammons, Carlos Lima. Third row: Peter Howard, Shane Greenfield, David Bobbitt. Fourth row: Taylor Fore, Marcus Mitzel, Dustin Harris. Bottom row: Justin Shorzman. (Courtesy image)
The Coeur Group, a nonprofit of local businessmen that supports community causes, announced this week that it’s stepping up the efforts of its COVID-19 Task Force.
Volunteers from the group have already been running errands for residents who are elderly or have medical conditions that put them at a high risk of COVID-19 illness.
Now Coeur Group members have teamed with the Kroc Center and a few local stores to provide financial assistance for families in dire need.
"Those organizations have been generous enough to step in and provide support when we encounter someone in extreme need," President Brian Babb said Thursday.
Babb explained that when a senior calls the hotline (208) 352-3140), a volunteer returns the call.
"In addition to figuring out what they need, we are also checking on their health and welfare," Babb said.
Occasionally, during those conversations it becomes clear that the person is in need of financial support to afford their basic needs.
“In those cases we have asked the Kroc for help and they have provided us a $25 gift card to Super 1 or Fred Meyer to help with paying for groceries,” Babb said.
Babb recommends those who are in need of financial assistance should contact larger agencies or call the Kroc Center Emergency Services phone line at 208-763-0777.
Kroc Center director Kip Sharbono said the Kroc's liaison officer has been in continual contact with the Coeur Group.
"As our list of those in need of deliveries continues to increase, we know the Coeur Group is ready and able to fill needs in partnership with the Kroc Center,” he said.
The Kroc Center has purchased $25 gift cards for gas or food from Super 1, Fred Meyer and Walmart and has been working with those in need and multiple agencies to identify ongoing needs. Request an errand by completing the form at bit.ly/2x4g2TW or call the hotline, 208-352-3140, and leave a message.