Olympic athletes lend a hand during pandemic

MONTREAL (CITYNEWS) – Canadian athletes aren’t heading to the Tokyo Olympics this year, but fencer Joseph Polossifakis and others are finding ways to stay busy.

Polossifakis has being helping with food deliveries to a Montreal foodbank.

“The demands have skyrocketed for food banks as we can see so it can’t come at a better time. I can’t see better use for this type of initiative,” Joseph Polossifakis explained.

“A lot of people who are used to getting food a certain way are no longer getting it, add on top of that extra distress for people who lost jobs or don’t have enough income are going to start trying to find alternative ways to get food.”

Team Canada usually sends a large shipment of food to Canadian athletes competing in the Olympics. With the 2020 Tokyo games postponed, they’re donating more than $60,000 worth of food, to those most in need during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Polossifakis was onsite at the Moisson Montreal food bank to help with the delivery.

“If we have the opportunity and people look up to us and see us as role models in the community, it’s also our duty to help out whenever we can and whatever opportunity I can get I will be there for Montreal and any other community of Canadians in need in any way possible.”

Several Canadian athletes like Laurent Duvernay-Tardiff and Joannie Rochette have been working in the province’s seniors homes during the pandemic.

Polossifakis, who also volunteers for student mentorship program classroom champions, says there are smaller ways athletes can help in the community.

“I’ve seen athletes bring food, I’ve seen athletes seen athletes helps show kids how to stay active, giving virtual lessons. Mental health, a lot of athletes open up about their own struggles. Just keep sharing and keep giving any experience that you can find.”

For Canadians struggling, Polossifakis has this message, “Keep fighting keep strong and we’re all here for you.”