Food Connects is launching a new series highlighting the amazing essential workers in our community who work hard every day to keep our children fed. Read on to learn more!
Jill Harnish
Jill Harnish has worked in school food service in our community for the past 11 years. She worked at Putney Central for her first 5 years, and now she’s in her 6th year working in Brattleboro, currently at Oak Grove School. We sat down recently and had a chat about her work and how things have changed for her this spring. Here are some highlights from that conversation:
Shelia Humphreys (SH): How has your work changed due to COVID-19?
“Please help out by volunteering when you can. We couldn’t do this without the volunteers, it would be too much. Volunteers are a big help to us!
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Jill Harnish (JH): My work is completely different. Instead of my usual routine of making food in the kitchen at Oak Grove for a smaller number of kids and focusing on preparing the hot lunch of the day, now I’m making A LOT of lunches and dinners. It’s a little like doing a bag lunch day for a class field trip, but on a much larger scale. Also, my workplace has changed. Now I’m working in the Academy School kitchen, which is actually closer to my house. Another big change is that I don’t see students during my workday anymore.
SH: What is keeping you going during these unusual times?
JH: What’s keeping me going is knowing that I’m making meals for the kids who might not otherwise have food and keeping myself busy with my work.
SH: Do you have children at home, and if so, how are you managing with childcare?
JH: It’s hard because my youngest is a senior this year and he’s in special education. He’s got homework to do, so when I leave work I have to go home and help him with his homework because he won’t do it when I’m not there.
SH: What has been your biggest challenge during this time?
JH: Working more hours than I’m used to has been my biggest challenge. I’m working 1.5-2 hours longer each day and I’m also getting up earlier. Trying to juggle work and responsibilities at home is a little difficult.
SH: How can the community support you and other food service workers during this time?
JH: Please help out by volunteering when you can. We couldn’t do this without the volunteers, it would be too much. Volunteers are a big help to us!
SH: What advice would you give to someone who is interested in working in school food service?
JH: It’s a rewarding job. It’s a nice feeling to feed the children and to get to see them everyday. It’s hard not to see them now. It’s good hours for being a working parent.
SH: What brings you joy?
JH: My kids. Also, my husband and I belong to a church and we cook a meal for the overflow shelter every month. I like feeding people.
SH: What are you grateful for?
JH: I’m grateful that I have my job and I’m grateful for my health.
SH: Final thoughts?
JH: My work is challenging but rewarding!