Ways To Help Your Community During The Coronavirus Pandemic
/Entire countries across the globe have come to an almost standstill. Public transport systems are almost empty, the streets are deserted, schools are closed and we are all encouraged to maintain social distance with our friends, family and colleagues. When life is like this, it can feel very isolating, lonely and difficult to connect with the rest of your community.
However, now, more than ever, it is important to maintain those connections, even if they are virtual, and know that you have someone that you can turn to when things start to feel difficult. Here, we look at a few of the things that you can do to stay connected to your community during the Coronavirus pandemic.
Look after one another
In times like this, we realize just how connected we are to those around us. We may rarely speak to our neighbors or people within the community, but we have intangible relationships, even if we don’t quite notice. Of course, you should follow the advice to maintain a physical distance, but it is still ok to check up on neighbors, family and friends and others that may be at risk in your local community, without getting too close.
You can send messages or pick up the phone and check in with them. If they are struggling, you can help them by finding out whether they are entitled to the stimulus checks for seniors.
Through posting on social media, you can show your loyalty to local and small businesses, and you could buy gift cards to use when things start to return to normal. And, even though it's necessary to avoid panic shopping if your local food bank needs your donations more than ever if you can buy a little more food than normal.
Donate blood
Blood drives all over the country have been cancelled thanks to the outbreak but is just as important to donate blood if at all possible. Get in touch with the Red Cross if you are healthy or eligible to give blood and they will help you to make the necessary arrangements.
Use technology
Thankfully, we live in an age where we can talk to almost anyone anywhere in the world. Video conferencing apps such as Zoom, HouseParty and Facetime have never been so popular, allowing loved ones and friendship groups to chat and spend time with one another as they would if they were in the same house. Arrange quiz nights with friends or see if your local senior center or supported living facility have access to the technology - many residents would appreciate seeing a new friendly face in times like this!
Get creative
While you should keep to social distancing regulations, there is nothing stopping you from leaving creative little gifts if you are out on a trip to the store or walking the dog. Paint rocks with messages of positivity, or hand hearts on yard gates. Whoever finds them will sure to have a smile on their face.
