I have been a volunteer at Manna soup kitchen since it moved to its current location. I am writing to thank all those who have helped the clients there and the city of Durango.

The clients do not need merely food but many other services. In-person relationships help the homeless as much as food. I still help those I can with legal counsel. The Rec Center in Durango and the public libraries in Ignacio and Bayfield have reopened, but Durango Public Library and Manna have remained closed, although providing take-out services.

This policy has hurt the homeless especially. Reasonable precautions such as masks and social distancing, numerical limitations and even taking of temperatures may be needed. Isn’t it time these facilities reopen?

Michael Considine