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Times are tough. People are fighting for their lives and businesses are struggling to stay afloat in the throes of this global pandemic. If you’re feeling discouraged or overwhelmed, you’re not alone—even if being in quarantine can sometimes make it seem that way. The truth is, we’re all in this together. Now more than ever, giving back is an especially meaningful way to connect with the world from afar.
First and foremost, supporting your community begins at home, by following the official guidance of the CDC and your local government. Practicing good hygiene and social distancing are essential ways to protect the health, safety, and wellbeing of others, near and far. Beyond that, if and how you choose to give back are entirely up to you.
If the thought of giving back leaves you feeling boxed in or priced out by financial constraints, you’ll be relieved to know that everyone can make a difference without spending a dime (or leaving home). After all, there are so many different ways to support others, and every contribution helps, no matter how many zeros you add to the end of it. Keep reading for some creative ways—big and small—to lend a hand during these trying times.
1. Donate
While it’s certainly the most obvious option, making a financial contribution to a nonprofit organization is a great way to help those affected by the COVID-19 crisis. If you’re financially able and want to contribute—whether it’s a portion of your stimulus check or even just a couple of dollars—be sure to do your research. There are many incredible organizations working on the front lines of the crisis, but here are two examples worth considering: Direct Relief (our giveback partner here at Liquid I.V.), which is working around the clock to support frontline workers and vulnerable populations with protective equipment and critical medications, and Feeding America, which has established a COVID-19 Response Fund to supply food banks across the country.
2. Offer to Help a Friend or Neighbor
Next time you’re about to lose your mind over that smacking sound your spouse or partner makes when they chew, consider re-channeling that energy into calling a houseridden friend or neighbor, or someone who’s isolating alone. Ask them if there’s anything you can do to help, whether it’s picking up some groceries for them on your next supply run, or helping them set up a delivery service. At the very least, they’ll be glad to hear from you!
3. Support Small Businesses
While businesses of all sizes have been impacted by stay-at-home orders, small businesses and independent service providers have been hit particularly hard. Independent shops, restaurants, fitness studios, salons, and wellness providers are fighting to survive. Many of the wellness providers we know and love no longer have an income to rely on. These are the hairdressers, massage therapists, nail technicians, pilates instructors, meditation coaches, and chefs we count on to look after us every day of the year. The best way to support them during this crisis is to pre-purchase gift cards and vouchers for future services. If friends and family have birthdays coming up, consider a gift card for dinner or a massage. Reach out to your favorite small businesses for more information.
4. Make a Mask
Depending on where you call home, you may already be required to wear a cloth face mask in public. We don’t know how long these orders could last, so it’s important to make sure everyone has what they need to cover up. Making DIY cloth face masks for friends, family, and essential workers is an easy and effective way to give back—and you can do it while you binge Netflix. Joann craft stores are helping nimble-fingered customers do their part, by sharing CDC-approved patterns and collecting drop-off mask donations at their stores nationwide. If you do decide to make and donate cloth face masks, be sure to use a CDC-approved pattern, practice safe hygiene (wash your hands and don’t touch the mask to your face), and follow local donation guidelines.
There you have it, four creative ways to give back during this extremely difficult moment in time. Help comes in different shapes and sizes, so you don’t have to write a check or leave the house to make an impact. And remember, LIV Fam: though it may not seem like it today, this too shall pass!