Covid Kits for the Needy

The Order of Malta of is one of the oldest continually-existing humanitarian organizations of Western civilization. Founded in Jerusalem in the second half of the 11th century, this religious order of the Catholic Church was originally formed to provide service to the vulnerable and the sick throughout the Mediterranean region. Over the centuries, the Order’s services to humanity spread throughout the globe. Today, the worldwide order is comprised of 49 associations (i.e., a group of baptized persons, clerics, and laity), serving people in more than 120 countries. Their mission is simple: “Upholding human dignity and caring for people in need.”

Farrington recently funded the Western Association’s proposal to provide Covid hygiene kits to the needy in Santa Clara County, especially the unhoused, unemployed, working poor, and sheltered seniors, all of whom are at greater risk of contracting Covid due to their living situations. Our grant was added to matching funds from members and other foundations. The Order was able to purchase supplies to build 3,500 kits containing face masks, sanitizer, toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, razors, lip balm, sunscreen, deodorant, socks, rain ponchos, gloves, and head/neck covers. These were distributed locally through Martha’s Kitchen and John XXIII Center of San Jose.