When you look at the numbers, it's clear that the coronavirus has truly taken a toll on our country. Whether you or someone you know has been directly affected by the disease or you're just doing your part to stay home and stay safe, COVID-19 has completely flipped our lives upside down.
During this time, many people are experiencing hardships and you might be wondering about the best ways that you can volunteer to give back.
Luckily for you, there are plenty of ways you can help healthcare workers, business owners, friends, family, and even your community during this time!
Keep reading for our guide to learn how to best volunteer your time and help out during the COVID-19 crisis.
Donate Money to Nonprofits
Currently, there are tons of local and national nonprofit organizations that are struggling to make ends meet. It is clear that there is a huge need, and they are doing their best to keep up.
With so many people out of work, it is obvious that not everyone can donate money to help combat the coronavirus. On the other hand, if you're lucky enough to have extra funds, then donating to a local or national nonprofit would be the absolute best way to have a direct impact.
Feeding America is a nationwide program that works to feed people across the country. They have 200 food banks and 60,000 food pantries. Donating to them can help feed millions of people who are affected directly by the coronavirus and you can even find your local food bank to volunteer your time.
Get Food to People
As we just mentioned, there are tons of people who need food during this time and a great way to volunteer your time is by helping to get them food. Many schools, churches, and other groups are working to get food out to those who need it.
This can't be done without the help of volunteers! Whether you're donating money, food, or your time, the people in your community need help. Do some research and reach out to see what the need is in your area!
They might need you to put some food boxes together, pass out food, or even make some porch drop-offs for people who are unable to leave their homes. There are tons of opportunities to help, and all you need to do is reach out to start volunteering.
If you are planning to leave your home to volunteer, then you should make sure that you're wearing a mask and gloves. Wash your hands regularly and don't touch your face.
Donate Extra Medical Supplies
Frontline workers are in need of your extra medical supplies! If you have gloves, masks, gowns, or any other PPE supplies that you're not using during this time, then you should consider donating them.
You can mail them directly to Esperança's office or if you live in the Phoenix, Arizona area, then just drop them off during our business hours. We will get them to the frontline workers who need them right away.
By taking the time to donate your extra medical supplies, you can save the life of a frontline worker. They are forced to wear the same PPE daily, which is dangerous, as it is normally meant for a one-time use.
Check on Your Neighbors
During social distancing, it might be difficult to make sure that your neighbors are okay, especially if they're elderly. A great way to check on them would be to call them on the phone, write a chalk message in their driveway, leave a note on their door, or even try to speak with them six feet apart if you see them outside.
Helping your neighbors is a great way to volunteer during the coronavirus. You can help by doing their grocery shopping for them, cooking them meals, or sharing your toilet paper if they weren't able to find any at the store for themselves. Your neighbor might even feel lonely and just want to chat with you on the phone for a bit.
When it comes to volunteering and helping out your community, you should check in with the people around you and see how they're doing. Giving back to your neighbors during this tough time will help us all feel a little more connected.
Give Blood
Another great way to volunteer your time during this pandemic is by donating blood. Unfortunately, the Red Cross has stated that many more people will not be eligible to give blood and more will be hesitant to give blood due to the coronavirus. This could cause a shortage, but the need for blood is constant.
This means that it is a great time for you to get out there and give blood if you are eligible! Taking the time to give blood means that you can help avoid any shortages.
Giving blood is easy and should be a quick process. Make sure to get a good night's sleep the night before. Eat a decent meal about three hours before you give blood and make sure to drink lots of water.
Volunteer Virtually
One of the number one ways to stay safe during the pandemic is by staying home, so volunteering virtually can help you give back and keep you safe!
You can volunteer virtually in tons of different ways. Reach out to people in your community to see who needs help.
One great way is to video chat with people who are social distancing by themselves. They can chat and hang out with you while you're both in your own homes.
Volunteer Your Time During a Crisis
In twenty years, when you think back to 2020 and ask yourself what you did during the coronavirus, we hope that you reflect on that time with pride, knowing you contributed to keep your community healthy and connected. When you volunteer your time, you are helping more than just yourself - you're helping everyone around you.
Please remember that if you have any medical supplies such as isolation gloves, masks, gowns, or any other PPE supplies, then consider donating them. The frontline workers are all in need of these supplies as there aren't enough to go around.
Be sure to drop off or send these medical supplies to our office!
