WACO, TX — COVID19 is taking its toll on Waco's most vulnerable.
Central Texans are losing jobs, locally owned businesses are shutting down and those with comprised immune systems can't risk doing simple tasks like shopping at the grocery store for things they need.
That's why one Hidden Hero is relieving a big burden and helping people in need.
Kimberly Zapata has a list of nearly a dozen people who need essentials like paper towels, detergent, bottled water and toilet paper.
Before the virus forced her employer to shut down, she was working in the hospitality industry.
Now, she's taking orders and delivering groceries for people in need.
"I want to make sure they have what they need in this time of the world, the way it is," Zapata said.
She walked out of the grocery store with a cart full, ready to make her delivery rounds.
“This is when people need the help. There are people that don't need to get out in this, that are sick or just can't get out. This is a time we all need to work together as a team," she said.
25 News accompanied Zapata as she made a delivery in Hewitt at Park Meadows located near Mosher and Ritchie roads.
"Between autoimmune and heart issues, we are not supposed to leave," Kathleen McAuliff said.
McAuliff is wheelchair bound and lives with her blind mother in Park Meadows.
She said it's people like Zapata that give her hope amid the pandemic.
Zapata said she is just trying to use her free time in a good way.
"I think you need to treat people the way you want to be treated and if I was in need, I would hope someone could help me also, but, I just think it's important to be there for people," Zapata said.
She hopes her act of kindness encourages other to spread a little hope, too.
McAuliff and Zapata connected through the Nextdoor app.
Zapata said for people in need of assistance, you can find her and message her on the Nextdoor app.
