It is in these times of uncertainty, that pulling together as a community is more important than ever before.
Wondering how you can help your community as we maneuver through the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic? Here are 10 ways you can help while still staying socially distant.
1. Give Blood
The blood supply in America and locally is in extremely short supply, and hospitals across the country are urging the public to donate blood. There are safe and effective ways to donate while maintaining social distancing practices. Click here to find a blood drive near you.
“You can still go out and give blood. We’re worried about potential blood shortages in the future. Social distancing does not have to mean social disengagement.” U.S. Surgeon General
2. Donate to Your Local Food Bank
With school closures, job disruptions, and health risks, millions of Americans will turn to food banks for much-needed support. However, demand for food assistance is rising, while donations and volunteers are dwindling. Feeding America, the nation’s largest network of food banks, has projected a $1.4 billion shortfall in the next six months alone.
Click here to get connected with your local food bank or consider donating to Feeding America’s Coronavirus Response Fund by clicking here.
3. Volunteer
There are still volunteer opportunities available where you can keep your distance and stay safe. Here are some resources to find a volunteer opportunity near you:
- Meals on Wheels Vulnerable seniors are at the greatest risk amid COVID-19. Local Meals on Wheels programs are on the front lines every day, focused on doing all they can to keep older Americans safe and nourished in communities across the country.
- Local Food Banks
- Find virtual volunteer opportunities at Points of Light
4. Order Delivery from Your favorite local restaurant
The restaurant industry has been hit hard by the coronavirus epidemic. Without your continued support, some of your favorite local restaurants may not be able to make it through this time. By simply ordering a meal for delivery or curbside pick up, you can help these businesses and their employees. There is also a number of Coronavirus Restaurant & Food Service Worker Relief Funds where you can donate.
5. Buy a Gift Card from A local small business
Buy a gift card from your favorite local business to use later. Or better yet, consider giving them as a gift to essential workers.
6. Shop online at your favorite local shop
Many businesses have moved to online shopping and delivery. Shop your favorite local store online to support their business.
7. Support Essential Workers
Nurses and doctors, police officers and fire fighters, grocery store workers, delivery drivers, sanitation workers, construction workers, and the list goes on. Support those serving on the front lines. You can offer to donate or order food delivery, learn to sew a mask to give to essential workers, or simply write them a thank you card. Any way you can support our essential workers will help them and the community.
8. Reach Out To Family, Friends, and Neighbors
Call, text, or email your neighbors and loved ones to check in and see how they are doing. See if there is anything they need and drop off at their door if you are able. The simple act of a quick hello can go a long way in this time of social isolation.
9. Donate Money
If you have the resources, consider making a donation to a local or national organization. Your donation will make an impact in this great time of need. Not sure where to donate? Charity Navigator has a list of organizations that are responding to COVID-19.
10. Stay at Home
One of the best ways to help your local community is to be mindful of federal, state or local guidelines aimed at preventing the spread of COVID-19. Stay home and if you must be out, keep at least 6 feet of separation between yourself and others.
We are all in this together, and together, we can make a difference.