Community Members Deliver Hot Meals

May 21, 2020

Inspired by a story she saw about a group who delivered hot meals to hospital workers in New York City, Mary Barnett and her family decided to bring the idea to Corona. The result: FLAG (Front Line Appreciation Group) of Corona, California ↗.

The group delivers hot meals, desserts and handwritten notes of support to hospital workers, first responders and staff at local senior centers. The night shift at Corona Regional Medical Center has been one of the beneficiaries of the group’s appreciative generosity.

As she started, Barnett had two goals: to support local restaurants and healthcare workers. So far, the group has raised more than $8,000. "We have been able to feed close to 900 healthcare workers," says Barnett, who approached the Corona Chamber of Commerce to help with the fundraising and logistics. "By paying for meals, we can help keep these small businesses afloat, and show our appreciation for healthcare workers at the same time."

Barnett delivers more than meals—she brings encouraging notes and signs, too, written by the community. "I bring a stack of notes and signs and the nurses and doctors put them up in the break room," she says. "It is amazing to see so many people come together and support each other!"

Barnett has posted photos and videos on the group’s Facebook page, FLAG (Front Line Appreciation Group) of Corona, CA ↗.

Barnett isn’t the only area person who wanted to support a local business while showing her appreciation for the healthcare workers at Corona Regional Medical Center. Quinton Steinle, who owns California Pools – Corona ↗, has been purchasing bagel sandwiches from 5th Avenue Bagelry ↗ to feed the medical and support staff at the hospital during different shifts. Thank you so much to all in the community who have continually shown their support and encouragement.