SWMA #2: Amparo
In conjunction with the Sunnyside & Woodside Mutual Aid [SWMA] newsletter, this series of profiles highlights the visions and voices of our neighbors in Sunnyside & Woodside as well as local community organizations. Read SWMA #1 about Woodside Sunnyside Composting here.
What does mutual aid mean to you?
Mutual aid means to me: neighbors connecting each other to community resources and building bridges with each other to uplift their diverse community, especially in times of great need.
What SWMA initiative have you taken part in or are excited to participate in?
I have taken part in donating foods to the Mosaic church, securing groceries for a needy family that lives on my street, and connecting these neighbors with food pantries and the school foods program. I walked with one of their family members to each location because we had a language barrier between us.
I am excited to get to know my older adult neighbors better, connected to them through check-ins. We all know that social isolation is deadly and it is especially dangerous during the pandemic as vulnerable populations are encouraged to stay away from their usual congregate services, greatly reducing their daily socialization.
How can SWMA help to create the neighborhood you aspire to be a part of?
SWMA can further activate our community to advocate for the positive changes we want in our neighborhood, like the awesome Open Streets program!
Here's my favorite community photo: compost drop-off at Sunnyside Gardens park on Sunday afternoons.