7 WAYS TO HELP YOUR COMMUNITY DURING A PANDEMIC

​With so many feelings of stress and concern brought on by the novel coronavirus, you may be wondering what you can do to help your community and ease stressors?  Especially in the toughest of times, we need to be there for one another and provide positivity where we can.
Here are seven ways you can help your community during the novel coronavirus crisis:

1.  CHECK ON YOUR NEIGHBORS & RELATIVES

​Especially if your neighbors and relatives are elderly or in another higher risk group, they may be needing extra help right now, so they don’t have to leave home.  If you’re making an online grocery order or venturing out on a supply run, ask if they need anything. It’s difficult for some people to accept help, but in times like these, we need to be there for one another.  You can safely leave things like paper towels, toilet paper and cleaning supplies right at their door and then let them know you did so.
In addition to providing errand support, give your loved ones and single friends a call just to see how they’re doing. Many people are stressed and anxious due to coronavirus changing their routines and finances, so a simple “how are you?” can go a long way.

2.  ​Clean out your closets for donations

Since we have been asked to stay home as much as possible, now is a great time to go through all your closets and fill up donation bags with things you no longer need. Depending on coronavirus outbreak level in your area, you may not be able to donate your items just yet — but hang on to them so you’re ready when donations pick up again.

3. Organize a neighborhood supply swap

Do you have extra toilet paper, but your neighbor is out? Maybe they have disinfectant spray and you are in need of that. Consider organizing a neighborhood supply swap on social media to help everyone get what they need. You can talk online about who needs what and arrange for porch pickups to allow you all to keep social distancing in place.

4.  ​Purchase gift cards to local restaurants

Right now, local businesses in many areas are struggling. Restaurant owners and servers have been asked to close for dining and provide carry-out or delivery service only.  In order to keep these businesses afloat, consider purchasing gift cards from them that you can use at a later time once they’re back to being fully operational. Many companies are also offering the option to purchase gift cards online, so you don’t have to leave your home.

 5.  say "thank you"

Employees in certain industries are feeling extra stress right now. Teachers, healthcare workers, grocery store employees — so many are going the extra mile, working long hours and learning new routines. Now is a great time to let them know they are appreciated.
Teachers are adapting to online learning methods while still trying to keep kids engaged and comfortable.  If you have children, consider sending their teachers a simple “thank you” email. Do you know anyone working in health care? Let them know you appreciate their hard work and selflessness. Next time you’re at the grocery store, tell the cashier or stock person how much you appreciate them being there for you.

6.  DONATE TO THE LOCAL FOOD PANTRY

Due to the higher number of unemployed residents, local food pantries are now trying to feed more  people in the community. If you’re financially able, now is a good time to take advantage of grocery store  sales of canned goods, peanut butter and pasta to donate to your local food pantry.  If you can, try to make it a weekly habit until people return to work.  

7.  STAY HOME

Help slow the spread and show sincere gratitude to health care workers who are putting themselves at risk by staying home.  

​​For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, this month, click here.  Discover the area's online entertainment calendar here. Also download the area's free mobile app.  ​​​​

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