How to Help Out During the Coronavirus Pandemic

During this pandemic, it is important to appreciate what we have and do what we can to help others that are in need of assistance. Here is a list of ways that you can give back to your community from home:

• Donate money to charities that help those at risk. Meals on Wheels delivers meals to vulnerable seniors. Donate here: https://www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org/take-action/covid-19-response. The Westchester COVID-19 Response Fund gives your donated money to organizations that help Westchester County residents impacted by the virus. Donate here: https://www.wcf-ny.org/. Feeding Westchester distributes food to those in need. Donate here: https://feedingwestchester.org/donation-page/.
• Donate toys to children’s hospitals. It is extremely difficult for children to enjoy their stay at hospitals, especially with a pandemic going around. You can help ease their experience by donating games or other toys to keep them busy. Check out https://www.nyp.org/morganstanley/family-centered-care/how-you-can-help/donate-needed-items to see what toys New York-Presbyterian could use.
• Purchase gift cards to small businesses. A lot of local businesses are at risk due to their forced closure or limited business at the moment. Support your favorite shops now, and once they reopen, you can spend what you have bought.
• Make cards for those affected or at risk. Give people hope by writing them comforting messages. Donate them to local hospitals or to the homes of people you know.
• Check-in with those who are vulnerable. Call your family or friends and talk to them. Show them that you love and care for them and that you are there to get them through these tough times.
• Show your support for healthcare workers. Take time to thank those that are trying their hardest to treat COVID-19 patients. A lot of pressure is put on them, and they deserve all of the appreciation that they can get. The biggest way to help them is to save the protective equipment for them. They are putting themselves at risk for our health and should be the ones using this equipment.

Practice social distancing. The most efficient way to help your community is by limiting the spread of the virus.