Elliot Sherer – Aegis Capital – How to Contribute to Your Community and Beyond Amidst The COVID-19 Pandemic: The COVID-19 pandemic has left much of the United States with feelings of frustration and stress. But every person can make a difference in their community and beyond. The following are ways to make contributions and provide assistance to those struggling at this time.
Make Financial Contributions to Charitable Organizations
Although many families are financially struggling due to loss of employment, if you can afford to make charitable donations, consider donating to organizations amid the pandemic. Hospitals, healthcare facilities, national and local charities provide those in need with food, financial assistance, and housing during this difficult time.
Elliot Sherer, registered representative, and VP of Investments at Aegis Capital make regular financial contributions to his local fire department and police department, as well as organizations like Ronald McDonald House, Food for the Poor, St. Jude, and Save the Children. Whether you’re a media professional, a stockbroker, a finance executive, an ad salesman, an educator, etc., supporting these organizations has never been more essential.
Donate Goods
The past several months have created unanticipated financial challenges for so many families across the country. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, many organizations, medical facilities, schools, libraries, etc. are in need of a variety of goods. Without requiring you to spend any money, the following goods can be donated:
- Clothing — Spending more time at home has provided ample opportunities to de-clutter and clean out closets. And many consignment shops continue to accept donations by mail. Research those near you to determine how to best donate your used clothing items to those in need.
- Computers — With schools, libraries, and offices closed, individuals have been forced to depend on-at-home internet access. However, a personal computer may not be available to everyone. As a result, many corporate and government organizations across the United States are being encouraged to donate laptops and tablets.
- Food — As the rate of unemployment in the United States continues to skyrocket, so makes the demand for food banks. Compounded by panic purchases and hoarding, available supplies fluctuate considerably. You can support your local food banks and food pantries by donating non-perishable food items like beans, canned goods, pasta, peanut butter, and rice.
- Low supply goods — Throughout the past few months, locating items like bleach, disinfecting wipes, hand sanitizer, paper towels, toilet paper, and paper towels has been challenging. Contact a local food bank, essential businesses, or neighbors to share your extra supplies with those in need.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) — Hospitals and healthcare facilities continue to experience low PPE stocks like surgical masks and N95 masks. You can donate any that you have to spare via organizations like DonatePPE and GetUsPPE.
Donate Blood
The Red Cross currently faces critical blood shortages. As a result of the novel coronavirus pandemic, fewer individuals have donated blood, and the number of eligible donors has decreased. If you’d like to donate blood and are eligible to do so, the Red Cross and other local blood banks have remained open and with numerous safety protocols.
Support Especially Vulnerable Groups
Contact local nursing homes, senior facilities, and nonprofit organizations supporting those with disabilities, cancer, or other health issues. Ask a healthcare professional how you can be of assistance. This may be in the form of delivering necessary supplies, writing letters to residents or patients, or making calls to help them feel less isolated and more supported.
Support Local Businesses and Restaurants
Unfortunately, a slew of eateries and small businesses have been forced to reduce capacity or close entirely in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. You can support local restaurants, cafes, bars, and businesses by purchasing gift cards, merchandise, or ordering takeout.
Practice Social Distancing
You can contribute so much to your community by merely adhering to public health guidelines. By staying home when possible and practicing social distancing when out in public, you can make a crucial difference in your community. Staying healthy and avoiding high-risk activities will keep you healthy, as well as those around you.