Community members Give Back

Kaniia and Kaylah are North Lawndale neighbors who decided to get involved with Harmony Food Pantry’s Senior Program during the summer home from University. With so much to do between the drive thru, the delivery program, and the personal shopper program we were thrilled to have the help. And, as one of the Senior Program’s goals is to encourage intergenerational interactions, they showed up at the perfect time. 

Kaniia quickly took the reins of the drive thru, helping to coordinate orders and ensure that our clients over 65 were getting their food quickly, with a smile and some chit-chat. From the lady in the blue truck who always reminded her about sunscreen and staying cool to those who just wanted to talk about their day, Kaniia became a real friend to our Senior program participants. 

While Kaniia managed the drive thru, Kaylah stepped into the personal shoppers program. In the weeks that the drive thru did not run, Kaylah helped our clients over 65 and people with disabilities to collect their orders for food distribution and made sure they were filled by one of the pantry staff. Kaylah said it was a highlight of her week to see the joy and relief on the clients’ faces as they receive the food and access the essentials they need. This program deepened her appreciation for community service, particularly to support those 65 and older. 

Kaniia and Kaylah are shining examples of what it means to give back to your community, and we are grateful for their help this summer. We wish them well in college and hope to see them again next summer!

Harmony’s Senior Program is funded by the RRF Foundation for Aging, and this grant paid for Kaniia’s salary during her time with the pantry.