The “new normal” isn’t normal at all. Parents are home-schooling their kids or supervising their e-learning. Many businesses have had to shut-down or have significantly reduced operations. Many are figuring out how to work from home, and those who normally work from home are learning how to do it with a full house. For many, jobs have disappeared and income has dried up, but everyone still needs to eat and keep the lights on.
At times like this, our instinct is to turn to each other for support. With “social distancing,” our ability to do that is limited. But we can still help each other in lots of ways. Here are some of the best ideas we’ve seen from other members of our community, of ways we can help others get through these difficult times:
Volunteer for a local organization that is making deliveries or putting together supply kits for those who can’t get out
Donate blood. Many hospitals and blood banks are predicting a shortage in the blood supply. Help save a life.
Call or video-chat with someone who lives alone and needs social interaction. Your grandmother. Your favorite uncle. Your next door neighbor. A simple phone call can make a huge difference to someone living alone.
Make a donation to a charity that serves those in need, such as the Food Bank of Northern Indiana or your local food pantry. Food banks and food pantries, in particular, are facing pressure as they expect to see increased demand due to increased unemployment, but also see a drop-off in donated 'excess' food from local grocery stores. All charities will likely see a drop in donations, so choose your favorite and make a difference for those in need.
Order carryout or delivery from your favorite restaurant - they need the support, and you want them to be in business when this is over. Make sure to tip well - if you can, give the same tip as you would have dining in!
Shop local! Many stores offer delivery or curbside pickup. If you can, purchase a gift card now to be used later to help sustain their business.
Offer to pick up food, prescriptions, or other items for those in high-risk groups. If you are going out anyway, save someone else a trip and unnecessary exposure!
Offer to tutor kids who are e-learning via video chat. This is a GREAT suggestion for college kids who are also home and bored. The parents will appreciate your help, and the kids will enjoy seeing a new face!
Reach out to friends or relatives who you believe are at risk of domestic abuse and help them make a plan to get to safety. The combination of close quarters and increased stress will be especially dangerous to them.
Foster a pet from a local shelter. Even if you aren’t planning to adopt another animal, fostering can relieve stress on facilities that will face a shortage of volunteers and visitors.
Finally, please remember to say THANK YOU to all the workers who put themselves at risk serving the public, from the doctors, nurses and caregivers to the grocery store staff who interact with hundreds of strangers each day. A smile and a word of thanks might make their day!
These are just a few ways to support your community. If you have others, please share them with us and we will pass them along.