KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Binder Park Zoo (BPS) is announcing their efforts to help the local community in the midst of the COVID-19 outbreak.
To begin with, BPS recently prepared meals that were distributed to several organizations in the area. Additionally, personal protection equipment (PPE) from the zoo’s vet hospital was donated to Bronson Healthcare.
Approximately 300 individually prepared meals were donated to S.A.F.E. Place of Battle Creek, United Way of Albion/Homer and Marshall House in Marshall. The zoo also donated enough bulk food items to create an additional 400 meals to the Share Center of Battle Creek.
“We had a pretty good inventory of food on hand, and while it would keep, we felt it could be put to better use helping out those who might be in need by the crisis caused by COVID-19.” General Manager of Food & Retail for Binder Park Zoo Brian McCorkell said. “Supporting our community is a privilege since they support the zoo throughout the year.”
The zoo also included a variety of plush animals from the Safari Gift Shop to distribute along with the meals for families with children.
“These meals were met with smiles as they were delivered to community members in the Albion and Homer area. It was a nice surprise to have a dinner ready to eat in these trying times”, said Marcia Starkey, Executive Director of the Albion-Homer United Way.
As far as PPE supplies, BPS donated a quantity of face shields, N95 masks, disposable gowns, surgical masks and caps, foot covers and gloves to the Bronson Battle Creek collection site on Thursday. Zoo officials made the delivery via the Zoomobile.
“It’s not unusual for zoos to receive donations of equipment and supplies from human hospitals.” staff veterinarian at Binder Park Zoo Dr. Kim Thompson said. “Now the opposite is happening. And while it isn’t an enormous quantity, we are happy to return the favor and do what we can by donating important PPE equipment to help keep our health care professionals safe.”
Currently, the zoo remains closed to the public. Essential staff is still on hand to ensure the care of the animals it houses.
“Like other organizations unable to open to the public, the zoo is in a tenuous position as well, but we have something positive that we can share right now – an inventory of food for our communities and supplies our health care providers need. To help bridge some gaps is a way we can give back and maybe, provide a bit of inspiration at the same time.” Manager of Marketing & Development Leslie Walsh said.
All updates regarding the zoo can be viewed online at www.binderparkzoo.org and the official BPS Facebook page.
