With all of us currently facing COVID-19, now is the time to come together to get through this crisis. One of the best ways we can do this is by helping each other during these difficult times. Whether a big or small gesture, thinking of others during these circumstances can go a long way.
Giving back to others is also good for your health, because it can make you feel happier and reduce stress levels. Check out our list of some ways you can help others during the COVID-19 outbreak. Make this a family affair by getting your kids involved too!
Reach out to family members and friends
We are so lucky to have technology, so be sure to use it. Checking in with your inner circle during your extra time at home is a great way to make sure everyone is doing okay. Host a virtual birthday party for a friend or call an elderly relative who lives alone. Another idea is to have your kids write letters or draw pictures to mail to their grandparents.
Whatever you decide to do, find ways to stay connected with your loved ones. These moments will help us strengthen our bonds and spread love during this crazy time.
Support your local businesses
Restaurants have all moved to carry-out/delivery orders and small business have moved to online sales, if they have them. Supporting local businesses during this difficult economic time is a great way to support these business owners who live in your community.
Plan a carry-out night once or twice a week and rotate ordering from your favorite local places. Buy a gift card online from a local business that you can use once they open back up. Also consider making a donation to any national small business relief funds or a fund set up in your area.
Pick up supplies for people
There are many individuals in our communities who are nervous about venturing out of their homes during this time. Maybe they are elderly, or they might live with someone who has an ongoing medical condition.
Consider offering to pick up groceries or medications for a neighbor, family member or friend while out running your own essential errands. Leave their items at their door so you do not interact directly with them.
Be safe in public by practicing social distancing and wearing a face cover. If you are at high-risk for severe illness with COVID-19, you should be staying home at this time.
Spread hopeful messages
Get outside for some fresh air with the family and get creative while spreading hopeful messages throughout your neighborhood. Write inspirational notes and draw pretty pictures on the sidewalk with chalk. You can also put up flyers with special notes for people to read when they are out walking.
A digital option to spread joy is to thank the frontline workers in your life on social media with a special, creative photo or video. These hopeful messages will help brighten the days of your neighbors and community members.
Make donations to nonprofits
Many of the nonprofits that do so much in our communities are currently struggling to make ends meet. There are also many nonprofits that are dealing with new demands in the health care, food and school areas they serve.
Make a donation to a nonprofit in your community, if you have the means to do so. It could be an organization with a cause that is important to you, or it can be one on the frontlines of the COVID-19 outbreak. Have your kids practice giving back to others by creating a list of nonprofits to make small contributions to together.
If you would like to make a donation to our COVID-19 efforts, visit our foundation website.
There are many other ways to donate right now that don’t require money. For example, consider making a blood donation. There is currently a high demand because of blood drives being cancelled due to social distancing.
If you have recovered from COVID-19, your blood can specifically help those currently fighting the virus. Learn more about our convalescent plasma treatment efforts.
Leave supplies for others
When shopping for essential items, you want to make sure you have enough food and supplies to last you for a week or so. However, it is important to be intentional, to not be wasteful and, most importantly, to not panic buy.
Disinfecting wipes, eggs, toilet paper and bread are just a few items that have been flying off store shelves during this pandemic. When you are shopping, take only what you need. That way, you are leaving enough important items for others who need them just as much as you do.
Stay at home
The best way you can give back to others during this time is by practicing social distancing. In limiting your contact with others, you are helping keep those around you safe by slowing the spread of COVID-19.
Always follow and stay up to date on your state’s social distancing guidance. During this time don’t visit others, be sure to wash your hands regularly, only leave home to purchase essential items and wear a face covering when out and about.
Stay updated on what Bon Secours is doing related to COVID-19.
