At a time like this what we need more than anything else is to look out for each other. No matter how big or how small, any support you can offer is positive and impactful during these challenging times. Now more than ever, our communities need us to create change in ways that are both innovative and equitable. If you would like to learn more about other organizations that are taking direct action, and how you can get involved, check out the list of resources and links below!
Stick Together Some people are donating $5 to their local food bank every time they go out to get food. Food banks all over the US are running low on supplies and every dollar helps. Another thing is just being generally nice and pleasant to each other. Realize that this is a stressful time for everyone and a simple wave or “Have a nice day!” can make someone's morning. Let them know no one is in this alone. Transition to Donation Since people can’t use public transportation or gym memberships right now. Some are cancelling those subscriptions and using that money to donate to helping beat COVID-19. Dine Inside Skip the big chains and order delivery or carry out from your favorite local restaurants. This is an especially scary and hard time for small businesses, including locally owned restaurants. If you are going to eat out, try to order from one of these places as these are your neighbors and friends and we need to look out for each other. Give blood if you’re able: Red Cross and other organizations are in dire need of blood supply and have safe, healthy ways for you to donate. Check on neighbors and family members, especially those who live alone, are elderly, have health or mobility issues or are caring for children. Assist in local fundraising efforts: Look into options that provide much-needed supplies to families, such as Amazon Wish Lists, as well as the work of your local community and volunteer organizations. Find your local mutual-aid network Right now, all over the country (and around the world), communities are coming together to create mutual-aid networks. Think of a mutual-aid network as a kind of hyper-local COVID-19 Craigslist where neighbors are able to post their needs—groceries, translation services, pharmacy runs, even cash to make rent—and others can choose to answer the call. Find your local mutual-aid network or start your own. Here are some of the best ways we found to help others during this time: Fork Over: Connecting folks looking to fork over some funds to service industry workers currently impacted by COVID-19. All you need is Venmo. Unemployment Law Project: Webinar on unemployment benefits, particularly as it relates to new provisions in the stimulus bill that allow “non-traditional workers” to get benefits. James Beard Foundation Food and Beverage Industry Relief Fund: 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization has highlighted the centrality of food culture in our daily lives. National Domestic Workers Alliance Coronavirus Care Fund: The Coronavirus Care Fund (CCF) provides $400 in emergency assistance for qualifying home care workers, nannies and house cleaners who are experiencing financial hardship due to the coronavirus pandemic. Restaurant Opportunities Centers United Disaster Relief Fund: Restaurant Opportunities Centers United is providing resources and financial assistance to restaurant workers impacted by the coronavirus crisis. SaveOurFaves: Help save local businesses during the COVID-19 crisis by supporting them through gift card purchases. USBG National Charity Foundation: Bartender Emergency Assistance Program