The COVID-19 pandemic has brought out both the best and the worst in people as we all come to grips with the necessity to protect ourselves, our loved ones and the health care system that must adapt to constantly shifting sands.
In the Tri-Cities and beyond, we are witnessing how people with additional resources are hoarding goods that make it difficult for the more vulnerable to acquire basic necessities.
It’s shocking to us, and many others sharing these images on social media, to see people loading up on toilet paper, meat and canned goods — and, in some cases, selling these goods in a parking lot at inflated prices.
There is a video circulating this week from our sister news organization castanet.net of a couple with a buggy full of meat. In another, someone in Langley with a minivan full of toilet paper and a makeshift sign “Toilet paper 4 sale” is trying to cash in on human misery and anxiety.
Reasonable citizens are outraged at this selfish approach to a community issue — never mind the jerks out there who are selling fake COVID-19 tests and snake oil vendors promising to stop the novel coronavirus with ridiculous "cures."
There are good reasons to call these people out as groups supplying food for the needy are struggling to purchase the basics; there is concern, for example, that Backpack Buddies, which supplies 1,300 meals each week to needy children, may not be able to supply some products if they can’t keep their own shelves stocked.
But for every ridiculous ripoff or self-centred act, there is even more community goodwill being shared.
Local Facebook groups are springing up, including COVID-19 Coming Together in the Lower Mainland and COVID-19 Coming Together (Tri-Cities) where people are offering goods, help and support for those who are struggling or isolated.
As well, at least one market, Lepp Farm Market in Abbotsford is opening an hour early (8 a.m., Tuesday to Thursday) to allow people who are elderly, immune-compromised or mobility challenged to get their fruits and vegetables during a quieter time of the day. Other grocery stores are reportedly following suit and Port Coquitlam Mayor Brad West has asked for special opening hours for seniors and others who may be vulnerable to COVID-19.
So while it's true there are jerks and charlatans among us, we shouldn't lose faith because there are even more helpful, considerate and supportive people who are reaching out to help neighbours.
At the same time, critics should differentiate from people trying to make a buck off others' fears and those perhaps buying more canned goods, cleaning supplies and toilet paper than they likely need as a normal response to fear and uncertainty.
For now, as we move into uncharted waters around COVID19, let’s hope we see more civic-minded responses and fewer selfish acts.
