Page 40 - May 2020

7th District keeping seniors in plain sight
n BY DAN CAMPANA
When it comes to some of the city’s most vulnerable residents during the COVID-19 crisis, Chicago Police Officers have kept an even closer eye on senior citizens in communities throughout the city.
That’s especially true in the 7th District, where an already close relationship has grown stronger through almost daily interactions. Officers are providing basic support and much- needed positive vibes while shelter-in-place rules keep most people cooped up at home.
From mail drops at the post office and food deliveries to friend- ly gestures of kindness, the district’s commitment to seniors is an everyday priority, according to CAPS Officer Roderique McClain.
“We have gone to the senior buildings and stood out with signs and waved to the senior citizens to let them know we haven’t for- gotten about them,” McClain said. “Just yesterday, we went to a senior building and hosted a chair exercise class for the seniors to look out the window and work out with us.”
Officers have continued to work with their community part- ners, too. April’s monthly food pantry, held in collaboration with the district’s faith-based subcommittee, turned into a drive-thru event where seniors kept their social distance by pulling up to pick up their items.
“We asked the seniors to stay in their vehicles, and we brought the boxes of food to them,” McClain shared, praising the local pastors and other volunteers who joined in the effort. “This was organized by Officer Joshua Shelton. The turnout of the commu- nity assistance, along with the smiles on the seniors’ faces, was truly unforgettable.”
40 CHICAGO LODGE 7 ■ MAY 2020
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