With so many feeling stress and concern brought on by coronavirus, you may be wondering what you can do to help your community. Kids are out of school, many are out of work, those in the higher risk group are scared — what can be done to give back and help ease their stressors? Especially in the toughest of times, we need to be there for one another and provide positivity where we can.
Here are five ways you can help your community during coronavirus:
1. Check on your neighbors and relatives
Especially if your neighbors and relatives are elderly or in another higher risk group, they may be needing extra help right now, so they don’t have to leave home. If you’re making an online grocery order or venturing out on a supply run, give them a call first and see if they need anything. It’s difficult for some people to accept help, but in times like these, we need to be there for one another and make sure our neighbors are taken care of without putting ourselves at risk. You can leave things like paper towels, toilet paper and cleaning supplies right at their door and let them know you did so, without compromising social distancing.
In addition to providing errand support, you can also give your loved ones a call just to see how they’re doing. Many people are feeling added stress and anxiety due to COVID-19 changing up their routines, so a simple “how are you?” can go a long way.
2. Clean out your closets for donations
Since we have been asked to stay home as much as possible, many of us are probably running out of things we can do around the house. Now is a great time to go through all your closets and fill up donation bags with things you no longer need. Depending on coronavirus outbreak level in your area, you may not be able to donate your items just yet — but hang on to them so you’re ready when donations pick up again.
3. Organize a neighborhood supply swap
Do you have extra toilet paper, but your neighbor is out? Maybe they have disinfectant spray and you are in need of that. On your community’s Facebook page or Nextdoor app, consider organizing a neighborhood supply swap to help everyone get what they need. You can talk online about who needs what and arrange for porch pickups to allow you all to keep social distancing in place.
4. Purchase gift cards to local restaurants
Right now, local businesses in many areas are struggling. Restaurant owners and servers around most of the country have been asked to close for dining and provide carry-out or delivery service only. In order to keep these businesses afloat, consider purchasing gift cards from them that you can use at a later time once they’re back to being fully operational. Many companies are also offering the option to purchase gift cards online, so you don’t have to leave your home.
5. Say “thank you”
Employees in certain industries may be feeling extra stress right now, trying to calm the storm and keep things moving. Teachers, healthcare workers, grocery store employees — so many are going the extra mile, working long hours and learning new routines. Now is a great time to let them know they are appreciated.
Teachers are adapting to online learning methods while still trying to keep kids engaged and comfortable, so if you have children, consider sending their teachers a simple “thank you” email. Do you have loved ones who are working in health care? Let them know you appreciate their hard work and selflessness. Next time you’re at the grocery store, tell the cashier or stock person how much you appreciate them being there for you.
If you want to join other members of the community in saying "thank you" to AdventHealth, visit our page to find ways to give back and make a difference.
Stay Up-to-Date With Coronavirus News
With news and information constantly evolving, it can get a little overwhelming. Your coronavirus questions are answered on our Coronavirus Resource Hub so you can stay informed. Plus, learn how you can connect to your doctor through video visits, if needed.
