Priya Darshini, a 36-year-old musician, has been cooking and delivering meals to neighbors in her Crown Heights building.
There are a lot of elderly people in my building, including one who has had a ton of cancer surgeries and has trouble getting around. Around March 10 I started reaching out to my neighbors and told them not to go out, and that I could pick up whatever they needed.
I left notes with my number outside a few apartments, and by the mailbox and outside the building, so anyone passing by can see it. This week people started texting me more, which I’m so happy about.
Now, whatever I cook for myself, I make extra. I’m a vegetarian, so I’ve been making lentils, which have a ton of protein, and vegetables. I try to make things with extra ginger and garlic, to boost the immune system too. I’ve cooked food for three families so far. I want them to feel warm and comforted.
The funny part is, when I moved into the building 10 years ago, I wanted to make friends because I think it’s important to know your neighbors. My way of making friends is making food, so back then I brought food to neighbors, who were a little suspicious: “What is this?” and “How much do you want for it?”
This is a time where everyone is really vulnerable, so we need to be there for each other. So far I feel like I’ve done very little, and I’m hoping I can do a lot more.
— As told to Suzy Weiss
Read more stories about neighbors helping each other.
