Letters

Here’s a practical suggestion to generate income and “helping” experience for young folks in our community — and also to actually save lives.

COVID-19 data clearly show that its virulence is far worse among folks over 65. On the other hand, worldwide, there have been relatively few serious cases and almost no deaths among those under the age of 20.

So, especially now that our schools are closed, and in order to prepare for the likely months to come of this pandemic, I suggest that we organize a “YouthHelps” home delivery effort.

This would help the older generation of Sag Harbor residents with risky social tasks, like buying groceries, retrieving prescriptions, and collecting and sending mail. In the limit, contacts would only have to be by phone and email. Orders, mail and checks could be left in the driveway, in the mailbox, on the porch, or in cars.

This strikes me as far better than the hit-and-miss efforts by some local grocery stores to have special hours for older folks. It leverages the information that a network of young people would be able to gather on supplies in area stores. It also might provide a way to supplement existing delivery services by stores and restaurants.

What do you think? And who wants to show leadership by signing up?

James S. Henry, Esq.

Sag Harbor