On Saturday, June 14, physicians and nurse anesthetists from the UNMC Department of Anesthesiology volunteered their time at Food Bank for the Heartland, sorting and packing food to help fight hunger in Nebraska.
This marks the department’s third volunteer shift at the food bank, a partnership that continues to grow thanks to the leadership of Ellen Brightweiser, CRNA, who organizes the event every few months.
“The Food Bank for the Heartland is a cause close to home,” Brightweiser said. “Many of the patients we care for face the same financial and food insecurity challenges. Volunteering here is one small way we can give back to the community we serve.”
The event is also intentionally accessible for busy anesthesia providers. “It’s easy to set up and easy to attend,” Brightweiser said. “There’s no cap on volunteers, orientation is just a five-minute video when you arrive, and you can bring your friends, family, or children ages 10 and up.”
The food bank focuses on eliminating hunger across Nebraska and western Iowa, providing meals to children, families, seniors and veterans. Brightweiser said she plans to continue this tradition of service in the future.