WEST, TX — The community of West, Texas, has been through a lot. April 17 marks the anniversary of the massive fertilizer plant explosion. Now, seven years later, the community joins together to battle the coronavirus.
Over twenty volunteers gathered at the West Community Center to start a new food delivery program for local shut-ins. On the first day, volunteers delivered 130 plates to over 90 households.
“They are not going to have any contact with the senior. They are going to drop it off on the porch, go back to the curb, make sure the senior is okay then go to the next delivery,” said Tommy Muska, Mayor of West.
City council approved a $10,000 grant for the program that will deliver food on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays for the next three weeks.
“Something like this is almost contagious. When people see somebody doing something good, they want to join in, and that is what’s happened here today by doing this. I hope we can do it when the $10,000 runs out that we allocated. I hope we can do more,” said Steve Vanek.
The effort is about more than just delivering food. It's providing dollars for local restaurants while ensuring the town's seniors are getting by day to day.
“Not only to provide the food, but to check in on them as well, make sure they are okay. If they are not feeling good, we will notify EMTs, but if they need a pint of milk or a quart of milk or something simple,” said Muska.
“After the explosion, the community went through so much and we were helped so much. We were helped tremendously. I think this is one of there ways of giving back a little bit. It may be in a small portion, but it's great. Whatever you can do is welcome," said Vanek.
The City of West proves that even small acts of kindness can make a great impact.
If you would like to volunteer to help deliver food, or if you would like to sign up for the program, Mayor Muska asks that you call West City Hall at (254) 826-5351.
