As a former nurse practitioner at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Maegan Vaz has taken it upon herself, with the help of her community, to provide lunches and healthy treats to healthcare professionals on the frontline. With so many connections at NYC-area hospitals from friends, graduate school and former jobs, Maegan was inspired to add all the support she could.

“Every time we send lunch, the nurses are thankful that someone thought of them and that they can enjoy a healthy treat during their busy day. I just recently left working at a hospital and this is my first time giving back to the people that taught me everything I know.” – Maegan

Maegan and her team have been able to provide meals to the medical heroes at NYU Langone Medical Center, New York Presbyterian Hospital and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. She says, “This is truly a group effort. Friends and family have assisted with donations and spreading the word and I’ve coordinated deliveries with nurses.” A special thanks from Maegan goes out to her sister and her fiancé for all of their help.

But not only is Meagan supporting the frontline, she’s helping support small businesses that make her city so special. “It’s important to me,” she says.

Maegan has ordered from a few local delis that are near each of the hospitals. Flip Sigi^®, The Original Filipino Taqeria^® in the West Village was one restaurant that immediately jumped on board with Maegan’s efforts. They even created a webpage to expand the outreach and are encouraging those that want to help to donate to their page directly.

Though this is only Maegan’s first year donating meals, she’s already made big strides. She joins the forces of students at Cornell and Columbia medical schools who are also raising money to feed healthcare workers around the city. In addition to meals, the students are also working to provide wellbeing resources to medical staff. Sperry is proud to donate $1,000 to NewYork-Presbyterian in Maegan’s name.

You too can help #feedthefrontline and support local business! Make a difference by delivering a meal (or more) to a neighbor in need or your local area hospitals and clinics. Check in with your local Meals on Wheels to see how you can help support those around you who are risking their lives day in and day out.