Don't punish food programs in attempt to control governor

Heather Scott, are you kidding me? Do you have any idea what is being done in Bonner County? The community has been very generous to help the seniors during this pandemic. But it is a costly program providing food for seniors.

The Sandpoint Area Seniors, Inc. shops, cooks, boxes up and, with the help of some dedicated volunteers, delivers over 2,200-2,400 meals a month and growing. In the beginning of the pandemic, the Area Agency on Aging increased the per meal allotment that helped with expenses as we had additional costs.

We haven't been able to open up our in-house food service yet but also provide “grab and go” for ones who request this service. We are diligent in keeping our staff protected in order not to shut down our kitchen, it is a concern of the board of directors, who would provide the meals if we were required to shut down? If there are funds available at this time why not give them?

Your comment “the bill provided too much government money to take care of the aging and that care should come from neighbors and churches” is insensitive. Again our community is very generous but even the best may be also in need. There are many non profits in our County and we all are asking the community for help.

If your reason for voting “no” is to control the governor, find another way rather than punishing the food program.

LESLIE MARSHALL

Sandpoint

Sandpoint Area Senior board member