As much of the world has changed dramatically in response to the coronavirus pandemic, Wayne State University’s W Food Pantry has adapted on the fly to continue safely serving students in need, providing not only free access to nutritious food and basic necessities, but also free technology resources.

In response to the coronavirus pandemic, Detroit's parks and recreation department set up emergency food distribution stations at recreation centers across the city to to serve families after school districts closed in March. As cases ballooned around Southeast Michigan, the department added a delivery element to their distribution efforts with support from the mayor’s innovation team. The delivery program — which has been extended through the year — has already served more than 160,000 meals to homebound residents with the help of volunteers, including Wayne State students.  

If you find it difficult to comprehend the full scope of the COVID-19 pandemic, you’re not alone. Medical doctors and policymakers have inundated the public with advice on the best ways to move ahead. But according to one Wayne State University history professor, the key to moving forward may lie in the past.