As Mr. Rogers said on his children’s show decades ago, when bad things happen, his mother would say, “Look for the helpers.”
No doubt those in the medical field have stepped up as the front line “helpers.” Those who continue to make sure that millions are able to eat and keep quarantined safely are also the “helpers.”
CNN recently reported on a story of an Ohio mailman who left notes for the 400 homes on his route as to if he could run an errand for them. He said nearly every family to whom he delivers mail has asked him for a favor. He said he didn’t realize there was that great of a need, but he is happy to do it for free. Another CNN story talked about a Kansas sheriff who was delivering necessary items to rural residents on his time off.
While many are trying to hold themselves and their families together, others may feel the need to reach out to help those who are unable to help themselves. Despite a shelter-in-place order, there are ways to help without breaking the quarantine order.
One story talks about donating blood to the Red Cross or volunteering at food banks for first responders. As millions are laid off, one shocking photo showed miles of cars lining up for a southern Florida food bank where demand has seen a 600 percent increase. Senior citizens and low-income families are the most affected groups.
Making homemade face masks for your family and others is possible. Jo-Ann, the craft store company, is offering free sewing kits to make masks for hospitals and healthcare facilities. Call your local hospitals to see the type of supplies they may need. Maybe you have extra that you can give up.
You can volunteer remotely through organizations like Alone that provides companionship to the elderly. Becoming an on-line mentor to a student involves one hour of week of tutoring and distance learning for younger people.
Volunteers also are needed as remote crisis counselors. The service includes free training on how to answer texts from people who reach out for help in what can be lonely times for many.
Helping the elderly through flowers, candy, cookies or cards to a local nursing home would be appreciated. Or you can send a letter through an organization called Love for the Elderly.
Of course, donating to your favorite charity – if you can afford it – would be appreciated. Two non-profit organizations that are helping with medical costs are HealthWellFoundation that provides financial assistance for prescription co-pays, health insurance premiums, deductibles and co-insurance, and GlobalGiving has a coronavirus relief fund where donations go towards medical supplies, delivering essentials to struggling families and feeding children who rely on school meals.
Facebook even is offering a Community Help section where you can log onto your account and either request help or share help with users within a 50-mile radius of your location.
Click here for other inspirational quotes on giving.
Stay safe and stay healthy!