.png)
South Pasadena Mayor Robert Joe called it a “spirit of partnership” June 4, as the U.S. Asian Arts and Culture Association for the second time in recent weeks generously donated a large supply of personal protective equipment due to the coronavirus.
Commonly referred to as “PPE’s”, the items are worn and used to minimize exposure to hazards that cause serious workplace injuries and illnesses, in this case COVID-19, which has spread around the globe.
Sabrina Li, representing the U.S. Asian Arts and Culture Association, made the presentation of PPE to South Pasadena fire and police departments, city staff and for community use.
“You bring a spirit of partnership, and we really appreciate that,” said Joe outside the South Pasadena Senior Center “Not only our community, but our city benefits so much from it. It goes to our police department, it goes to our fire department, our senior programs and our essential workers.”
He stressed that he was grateful for the kindness and generosity of the organization.
A newly formed group since the coronavirus outbreak began 10 weeks ago will also welcome the PPE’s by distributing them to homebound seniors in the community. Some 200-300 strong, members of South Pasadena Volunteers Grocery Shoppers pickup and deliver groceries to residents as concerns for the virus continue. Other groups receiving the PPE’s will be Holy Family Catholic Church Giving Bank and the Meals on Wheels program, which operates out of the South Pasadena Senior Center.
“This is just an example of America of what people do in our community,” said South Pasadena City Councilmember Michael Cacciotti as he thanked Li for her generosity during the brief ceremony.
“Thank you for your ongoing support,” added Joe Ortiz, the city’s police chief. “You have no idea how this makes us all feel. This is a reminder to all of us, there is a pandemic. It’s still out there. We appreciate your support and passion.”
South Pasadena Community Services Director Sheila Pautsch said, “We appreciate everything you guys continue to do for this community,” as she thanked Sabrina and the U.S. Asian Arts and Culture Association. “It’s nice to see how this community has pulled together. It’s amazing. Everybody’s here for everybody and they care what’s going on with their neighbor and their friends in the community. Thank you.”
Ed Donnelly, from the volunteer grocery delivery program, and Marlene Moore, director of community services at Holy Family Church, were also among those offering their thanks.
In closing, Joe, reflecting on the coronavirus and unrest across the country as a result of the death of George Floyd, an unarmed black man who died after a Minneapolis police officer kneeled on his neck for 8 minutes 49 seconds, told the gathering: “Kindness is still in business. Thank you again Sabrina. The donation is just unbelievable.”
