SALT LAKE CITY — While the pandemic has brought a lot of hardship to people around the world, it has also has inspired plenty of generosity.
Navajo Strong is a non-profit that formed in 2020 to help those living in the Navajo Nation, who have been disproportionately impacted by the pandemic. Since it began, the group has provided food, personal protective equipment, and supplies to those on the reservation.
Firewood distributions have been an integral part of their effort as well, with many heating their homes and cooking food using wood.
“They’re just having a hard time getting a lot of supplies,” said Leah Swenson, the warehouse manager for Navajo Strong.
Swenson has been helping the group since April 2020. She says she spends around 15 hours a week volunteering in addition to her full-time job, and now has her father and daughter assisting in the effort as well.
“We do everything we can to help the people on the Navajo reservation, and I enjoy it from the bottom of my heart,” said Lee Haswood, Swenson’s dad.
Navajo Strong plans to travel to the Navajo Nation at the end of May, stopping in Shiprock, New Mexico along the way to deliver essential supplies for the Shiprock School District. They’re also continuing to focus their efforts on long-term projects that preserve culture and support Navajo youth.
Anyone interested in helping with supplies can drop off donations at Les Schwab Tire Center at 3751 West 3500 South in West Valley City.
CLICK HERE to donate or learn about volunteer opportunities with the organization.
