1. DONATE TO FRONT LINE HEALTHCARE WORKERS
It’s beautiful and relieving to see that people and households across the globe are doing their part in stopping the spread of the COVID-19 virus by self-isolation and committing to social distancing. However, we can all agree that the real heroes of this epidemic are the front line responders and healthcare workers that are needed now more than ever in our country’s history.
To give back to the people risking everything to fight this outbreak, go to the TIME Magazine article linked here for a list of organizations aiding local public health agencies, emergency personnel, medical centers nonprofits, doctors and nurses, direct relief assistance, and more.
2. SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL BUSINESSES
While the U.S. and the rest of the world have settled into our self-isolation within the comfort of our homes, local businesses like restaurants, entertainment, family-owned shops, and more are suffering from a lack of customers and steady income. To do your part in making sure your favorite corner coffee shop or concert venue comes out of this epidemic alive, here are some ways you can help:
-Purchase online gift cards or delivery from your local restaurants, florist, small good shop, brewery, etc.
-Support local artists/entertainment by buying merch, art pieces, and online music
-Post your favorite local shops that are still open and doing delivery on your social media to inform your friends to give their business during these trying times
3. ADOPT OR FOSTER A PET
Want to add a furry little friend to your quarantine crew? This period of self-isolation has been an ideal time to bring an adoptable pet into your home, but is also a critical time for shelters and humane societies around the country in that many have been forced to close to the public and are operating with limited staff due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. With an increase of pressure on caretakers and resources, many shelters and groups are calling out to the public to adopt or foster these abandoned pets in need.
Click here to find a an adoptable pet near you!
4. GIVE BLOOD
In times of crises and health epidemics, blood donation are significant for healthcare facilities and medical aid. This is even more important now during the COVID-19 crisis when mobile blood locations and more have been limited in their operations and assistance.
You can do your part by donating to the American Red Cross Foundation or local blood bank.
5. FOOD DONATIONS AND ELDERLY ASSISTANCE
The elderly and immunocompromised are the most vulnerable and at-risk to the COVID-19 symptoms. While the other generations are doing their part to social distance to assist in the spread of the infectious disease, there are other safe ways to actively help these groups of people more susceptible to the virus by:
- Posting on your local Nextdoor app for neighborhood needs like grocery delivery, medication pick-up, or pet care
- Monetary and cleaning donations to retirement homes or assistance to local food banks and/ore meal services like SERVING SENIORS or PROJECT ANGEL FOOD
- Keep contact with your elderly loved ones via phone call, letters, and Zoom to get the safe interaction they need and keep their spirits up
