Local non-profit delivers necessities to families stricken by cancer

Young cancer patients are among those being impacted by the coronavirus.

Air hugs and smiles are how the staff at Jacob's Heart Cancer Support Services greeted families while making their deliveries throughout Monterey County.

They spent hours packing groceries, clothes and essential supplies collected for the families of children with cancer.

"This is really important to me because it feels like you're a part of the community even though you feel really lonely without the person you lost. I lost my sister Ziva. She meant everything to me," says Tamar Mitnick.

The efforts come after the shelter in place order left many unable to leave their homes.

"A lot of stress, we've been going through a lot of worries anxiety, not figuring out what was going on with bills and food. They've helped us through this journey just to stay strong and committed," says Jorge Guerrero.

On a normal day, Jacob's Heart has over 200 volunteers but today...just 13 remain to keep exposure to a minimum.

Those who joined today geared up with gloves and safety masks and set out on their mission.

The staff members at Jacob's Heart are going from home to home to make their message loud and clear...hope is the cure for despair.

Founder Lori Butterworth has been serving families for 22 years and says families of sick children are some of the most vulnerable during these times. 

"Many of our families were already at risk of losing their home before this hit because one parent already has to quit a job to be with a sick child. You can just imagine how that's multiplied right now," says Butterworth.

They're also offering other benefits like financial assistance, counseling and grief support at this time.

Jacob's Heart will be delivering food and supplies every week as needed by families.

For more information on Jacob's Heart, or get help, call 831-724-9100