TRENDING

Quarantining doesn't mean you have to isolate your skills and talents from your community. Here's how to make a difference while social-distancing.

Donate to food banks

via GIPHY

With unemployment at record highs, many families can't afford to go to the grocery store, so food banks are essential organizations that still need to stay stocked at this time. If your family is fortunate enough to be in a position to donate, consider picking up a few extra items at the grocery store the next time you go out for essentials. Then, call your local food bank for instructions on contact-free drop-off or pick-up.

Donate via Venmo to various charities 
Have some money stashed away and want to donate but don't know where to start? This list features trusted organizations that are focused on getting aid to in-need people right away. 

Call senior-living homes
Residents and employees at senior-living centers are especially at risk of contracting and facing severe complications of coronavirus. And in many cases, volunteers and families are now no longer able to visit. This could hurt the mental and emotional health of the residents, so many of these facilities are coordinating a volunteer-focused phone call system. Yep, you could brighten an elderly person's day just by calling out of the blue, introducing yourself, and chatting about anything from books to TV shows to the weather. Reach out to a senior-living facility or nursing home in your area and see if you can start chatting. 

Offer online tutoring

Since schools and businesses have gone remote, many families are struggling to find a work-life-school balance. By offering to help out virtually, you can allow parents to relax a bit and focus on their job responsibilities. So, reach out to a family member or neighbor who has little ones—we bet the kiddos will think you're A+.

Donate blood 
There are many requirements for being a blood donor (see the Red Cross's list here), but if you fit the bill, now is a great time to donate, as many blood banks are in desperate need. Talk to a parent about your interest, and with their permission, call ahead to schedule an appointment. You'll also want to ask about their policies during this difficult time—many blood banks are making big changes to make sure they distance donors, stagger appointments, etc.

Perform or write 

via GIPHY

Reach out to your local newspaper, start a blog, a vlog or perform music online for the community. This is a fantastic way to use your talents to build faith and an optimistic spirit of recovery. 

How have you been helping your community? Let us know in the comments!

by Nancy Bowne | 4/6/2020