The Coronavirus Pandemic has made it difficult to help and connect with people around us. As people are struggling during this crisis, here are a few ways to help.

1. Check on neighbors: Some of your neighbors might be having difficulties getting groceries or are saddened to stay indoors. Call or text them to make sure they are doing ok. Plan a video chat together with friends. Offer to help them pick up necessities and drop them off at a safe distance. 

2. Give Blood: Blood donations are at a must need right now so why not donate. According to a press release from the American Red Cross says they expect to see a decrease in people who are eligible and willing to donate blood as the coronavirus spreads. They are encouraging “healthy, eligible individuals to schedule a blood or platelet donation appointment at redcrossblood.org to help maintain a sufficient blood supply and avoid any potential shortage” 

3. Donate: There are many organizations that are in need right now. If you can and have the resources, think about donating to your favorite organization. Whether the organization is about the front lines fighting the coronavirus or completely unrelated to the pandemic, the money you put makes a difference.

4. Help Your Local Hospitals: Hospitals are running low on personal protective equipment which is a huge problem. They need N95 respirator masks, disinfectant wipes, hand sanitizers, soaps, goggles, and disposable gloves. If you have large quantities of any of these items in your home or find some at the store, you could donate them to your local hospital. You could also make homemade face masks or if you have a 3D printer at home, you could make goggles and face shields to give. 

5. Support local restaurants, cafes, and other establishments that have closed: Local eateries were forced to close or reduce operations due to the outbreak. To help local restaurants, think about ordering takeout, purchasing a gift card or merchandise. You could also help servers and workers that have been laid off by donating to a fund or nonprofit like the Restaurant Workers’ Community Foundation.

6. Help ‘flatten the curve’: To help slow down the spread of the coronavirus, practice healthy hygiene, practice social distancing, wear a fabric mask, and stay at home as much as you can. By following these healthy guidelines will not only help keep you safe but also keep your community safe.  

Citations-Websites:

Vongkiatkajorn, Kanyakrit, and Laura Daily. “How You Can Help during the Coronavirus Outbreak.” The Washington Post, WP Company, 6 Apr. 2020, www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2020/03/21/how-you-can-help-during-coronavirus/?arc404=true.

“9 Ways to Help Others During the Coronavirus Pandemic.” Idealist, www.idealist.org/en/careers/help-others-coronavirus.

Citations-Pictures:

Sanchez, Chelsey. “How to Help Your Community During the Coronavirus Pandemic.” Harper's BAZAAR, Harper's BAZAAR, 27 Mar. 2020, www.harpersbazaar.com/culture/politics/a31483983/how-to-help-coronavirus-pandemic/.

Kunc. “Ways You Can Help During The Coronavirus Outbreak.” KUNC, www.kunc.org/post/ways-you-can-help-during-coronavirus-outbreak#stream/0.