A Northeast Colorado Springs resident has made it a weekly custom to provide meals for the Apex Waste Solutions sanitation crew that services her neighborhood. For the past year, Ariahna Whiteside has prepared food every Friday as a way to recognize the workers’ efforts.

The practice began when Whiteside was moving and had an unusual amount of trash. Seeking a way to express her gratitude, she decided to offer food to the collection team. She has also stated that the ongoing act serves as a way to teach her children the importance of showing appreciation for others.

The gesture has been positively received by the workers. Keoni Kaneshiro, a driver for the sanitation company, has conveyed that the weekly meals make him and his colleagues feel seen and valued.

Whiteside has indicated that she finds personal fulfillment in cooking and contributing to her community. Her efforts have reportedly expanded beyond the weekly meals for the sanitation crew to include providing food for individuals experiencing homelessness.