As the COVID-19 pandemic spread through Solano County, the community stepped up to share food, resources, personal protective equipment and good will.

There were car parades with honks of encouragement, a military flyover, orchids for health care workers, hand-written cards of thanks and greeting cards designed by students for patients. One young artist sold her work to raise money to buy lunch for hospital workers.

“We’ve been overwhelmed by the generous nature of our community, and greatly appreciate the support,” said Aimee Brewer, president of NorthBay Healthcare Group.

One major effort was spearheaded by Green Valley resident Roger Merrill, president of the Green Valley Landowners Association.

Merrill has spent time in NorthBay’s emergency and intensive care units and saw an opportunity to pay back the kindness by launching a “Feed the Fight” group that ultimately raised thousands of dollars to serve meals to front line workers.

“I got great care there,” he said. “I have a soft spot for health care workers and the role they play. I am aware of the impact they have and that’s part of what motivates this effort.”

He secured $2,000 from the landowner’s association board and then created a GoFundMe page which raised thousands more.

His group wasn’t alone. Many groups, businesses and individuals came forward to offer what they could, from cash donations and home-made masks to face shields, gloves, gowns, and hand sanitizer, helping NorthBay through some critical times.

A complete list of all those who donated can be found on NorthBay.org/donate.