This post is a little bit different than my usual content, but it was something I really wanted to share. I don’t know about you, but I’ve been feeling a little helpless. If you’re following CDC guidelines, staying home, and maintaining social distancing when you go outside, that’s the most important thing you can do. But, I thought I would share 5 ways to give back to those who are struggling during this time. Yes, many of these are monetary, but even a small amount can make a difference. And, if you can’t afford a monetary contribution right now, there are other ways to help. Find an opportunity to volunteer remotely, or help spread the word about the people and organizations doing great work.
1. Support local restaurants and feed hardworking healthcare workers by giving to organizations like Frontline Foods. Frontline Foods is a grassroots organization that raises money from the community to pay local restaurants to prepare meals for the heroes responding to the COVID-19 crisis. They recently partnered with nonprofit World Central Kitchen, and have nearly 50 local chapters, in addition to their national campaign. You can also look up your favorite restaurants and see if they’re delivering. Many of them also have GoFundMe pages for their staff if you feel comfortable contributing.
2. Instead of ordering books from a big box retailer, support local bookstores by shopping at Bookshop.org. They are an online bookstore with a mission to support independent bookstores financially and give back to the book community. Their selection is fantastic, and they’ve already raised nearly $800,000 for local bookstores! I rounded up some of my favorite reads here.
3. One of things I’m most grateful for right now is having a safe, secure home. But, there are so many people around this country (and the world) who aren’t so fortunate. The homeless are highly susceptible to this virus because they can’t socially isolate in a protected environment. You can help those in need and the people looking out for them in your community. The National Coalition for the Homeless has a directory of local shelters.
4. The United States Postal Service (USPS) has been struggling during this crisis as less people are sending mail. After it was announced that they might not receive the financial support from the national government that they need, Twitter exploded with a campaign to #SaveUSPS by buying stamps. A book of stamps is only $11, but that adds up quickly. It’s the perfect example of how a small amount can make a big difference.
5. So many companies, small and large, are pivoting to use their resources for critical items like face masks and hand sanitizer. Many bigger name brands are also giving back (check out this great roundup from Who What Wear), donating supplies when people buy a certain amount. It’s also a great opportunity to support independent makers on Etsy and any entrepreneurs or artists you may know who are using their sewing skills for good.
These are just some examples of things we can do to help. The CDC Foundation and the World Health Organization are also working incredibly hard to fight this pandemic, and they deserve our support as well. I hope that you’ll feel empowered to do something for someone else. As corny as it sounds, we are all in this together.
