This week, as we filled up our shopping carts with sweet potatoes and sage, as we blended up the pumpkin puree for the pie, and as we sat to eat with our families, we gave thanks to the millions of food workers across the US who are toiling in fields, farms, orchards, packing houses, and slaughterhouses. But their work doesn't end when Thanksgiving does. They work with insufficient worker protections, in dangerous working conditions, and for poverty wages. Yet, we all rely on their work, year in and year out, to grow, harvest, and process the food. Our deep gratitude goes to food workers all across the country.  We all can eat heartily and well year-round because of the work that you do. We’re also thankful for the clinicians, community-based organizations, and nonprofits working to better the health of these most vulnerable in our communities. Today, MCN offices are closed, but we asked our staff to share resources, partners, and projects for which they are grateful, to share with you. So, here is Five on Friday, Thanksgiving week edition. 

Esther: “I’m grateful for my community and the hard work done in collaboration with the Lower Shore Vulnerable Populations Task Force! Throughout the pandemic, VPTF has provided food, rental assistance, vaccines, and care to our most vulnerable on the Eastern Shore. Learn more about our event on December 3rd here.”

Kaethe: “I’m thankful for MindSite News Daily.  I read it every morning the moment it comes.  ‘MindSite News is the only digital news site in the US dedicated exclusively to reporting on mental health.’”

Deliana: “I am grateful for the caring and compassionate Health Network team who every day work so hard to make people’s lives better!”

Amy: “I am grateful for our many partners and it’s hard to pick only one. So I will highlight Alianza Nacional De Campesinas  --  I am grateful for their deep, never-ending commitment to farmworker women and their families.” 

Ashley-Michelle: “I’m grateful for our supporters and their willingness to empower our work across the globe. Giving Tuesday is next week – thank you for supporting MCN!”

Have a safe and healthy weekend!