LOS ANGELES - ColoradoDesk -- It's no secret that COVID-19 has been the cause of many to fall on hard times, especially for the most vulnerable in society. In an attempt to provide some relief, author and serial entrepreneur Dove Bennett started a movement when she offered to cook, package, and hand-deliver hot meals to the veteran and elderly residents of West Covina, CA… on foot! Setting an example of how to show true unselfish solidarity with these important, and sometimes neglected members of the community, Dove created a unique, three-option menu and funded its supplies out of her pocket. The carless 27-year old Army veteran even took it upon herself to walk around the city delivering food.

"I've been extremely blessed during this time," commented Dove. "In return, I just want to do my part to give back to those who may need an extra hand. It has been a wonderful, fulfilling experience."

More on Colorado Desk

• Our story is still being written: A Fourth of July letter to the residents of Colorado Springs on the 250th birthday of the United States
• From trails to tunes: Colorado Springs celebrates Park and Recreation Month all July long
• Colorado Springs: Reduced lanes on Pikes Peak Avenue during bridge repairs
• Colorado Springs: Vehicle access returns to North Cheyenne Cañon Park Thursday
• Colorado: Governor Polis Appoints Michael B. Garlan to the Adams County Court in the 17th Judicial District

Residents took notice and offered their assistance by picking up the cooked and packaged meals from her home and delivering them to the recipients. She also received volunteers from GIS analysts who mapped out the routes for deliveries to make it easier on the volunteer drivers. Since getting the additional assistance, Dove's efforts were able to expand from just veterans and elderly in West Covina to single parents, essential workers, and those who have been financially impacted throughout Los Angeles, San Bernardino, and Orange County, California. It's expected that the good news of this open-hearted work will inspire people in other communities to take similar actions as needed, both during the pandemic and afterward.

Safety was a top-priority for Dove and other volunteers. The food deliveries were no-contact by assigning time-frames to the recipients, ringing the doorbell upon arrival, and leaving the food inside of a protected bag at the door. On May 9th, 85 meals were delivered to homes and places of employment. Dove documented the process in a vlog on her YouTube channel and the response continues to be passionate.

Tune in for the latest from Dove Bennett by visiting her website and expect to be inspired.