Resident Ambassadors Angiza and Gladys reflect on their experience in speaking with ANIDA’s food bank members, as well as the progress they have made thus far.
ANIDA acts not only as a source of support for families across the GTA, but as a reputable source of information surrounding the issues that impact our beneficiary communities the most. Undoubtedly, one of these issues is the hesitancy and misinformation surrounding the COVID-19 vaccine.
As a result, ANIDA has been selected as a partner in the City of Toronto’s community mobilization vaccine campaign. Tasked with changing the dialogue around the COVID-19, Resident Ambassadors Angiza and Gladys reflect on their experience in speaking with ANIDA’s food bank members, as well as the progress they have made thus far.
Angiza expressed her hope surrounding the perception of the vaccine, mentioning that most clients she has interacted with have already received their first dose. For those who have not, she is aiming to target the misinformation that has been circulated within the community. However, this cannot happen instantaneously. She mentioned that, “sometimes after my conversation with [the food bank members], they might take some time to think and then come back to the stand later”.
When asked about a common misconception she is hoping to address, she commented that, “there are so many misconceptions, that’s why we’re here! Our goal is to educate people and answer all of their questions”.
Gladys placed an emphasis on following up with the clients and holding herself accountable to meeting their needs. “I have been able to give the clients online resources to learn more about the vaccine and help them book their appointments on the spot. I’ve met many different people in different environments and hope they spread the word to their communities as well”, says Gladys.
ANIDA’s Resident Ambassadors will continue to engage with other community partners to increase awareness in the Black Creek community and beyond! Pass by and you’ll see friendly faces ready to discuss anything and everything about COVID-19!