Simple Ways to Give Back During COVID-19

Contributed by Addison Group

It’s easy to feel a little helpless when you’re at home all hours of the day. But there are still plenty of ways you can make a difference in your community and to those on the frontlines of COVID-19. Monetary donations, big or small, can go a long way to help organizations get the resources they need to keep people safe and healthy. But even if you don’t have the means, simply showing your appreciation for essential workers or sharing words of encouragement around your neighborhood can have positive impacts for everyone.

Here are some organizations and resources to check out. And if you have other ideas, add them in the comments section!

Direct Relief

The United States is currently experiencing a shortage of protective equipment in hospitals and healthcare facilities as the number of people with COVID-19 continues to rise. Direct Relief is coordinating with public health authorities, nonprofits, and businesses in the U.S. and around the world to provide personal protective equipment (PPE) and other essential medical items to healthcare workers responding to coronavirus. Click here to donate and help healthcare workers get the essential equipment they need.

Feeding America

As people visit grocery stores to stock up on food to get them through the weeks ahead, there are those who don’t have easy access to food and rely heavily on food banks. Local food banks need support more than ever, as food drives and donations have decreased with lockdowns in place. Consider donating to Feeding America’s COVID-19 Response Fund which helps get food and funds to local food banks across the U.S. They also have an interactive map that allows you to search for food banks in your area so you can reach out on a local level.

American Red Cross

The American Red Cross is currently experiencing a severe blood shortage due to the coronavirus outbreak, as they can no longer host public blood drives. But if you’re healthy and meet donor requirements, you can still give blood! Visit their website to set up an appointment. And if giving blood is not an option, you can still donate to their efforts or spread the word on social media and encourage others to give back if they are able.

Google / UN Foundation

For every $1 you donate from now until April 30, Google will donate $2, up to $5 million to benefit the COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund for the World Health Organization (WHO) through the United Nations Foundation. The funds will be used to support global preparedness and response in communities affected by the spread of COVID-19. Click here to donate.

Support Your Local Restaurants

The restaurant industry has taken a big hit during the coronavirus outbreak, as many have temporarily closed their doors in states where shelter-in-place or group limitations are in order. However, many restaurants and bars are still providing pick-up and delivery options. Look up your favorite go-to spots on their websites or social media pages to see if they are participating and consider ordering from them during the week. You’ll not only help their business and employees, but it also gives you a chance to mix up your at-home eating options. Here are several other ways you can help your local restaurants.

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