Explore tips for the times. From self care to social distancing to giving for impact, we’ve got you covered.
Safety Starts At Home
Don’t let the hand-washing parodies fool you: following sanitation guidelines and social distancing protocols is one of the simplest and most effective strategies we can use to overcome the COVID-19 crisis. Here are a few more ways you can protect yourself and your loved ones from the comfort and safety of your home:
Make space for self care. These are stressful times for all of us, and it’s perfectly normal to feel anxious, scared, or even angry. Self care looks a little different for everyone, but regular exercise, (virtual) social interaction, or even exploring a new hobby are all great ways to start!
Have a plan. Creating a plan of action that outlines your response to you or a member of your family being exposed to COVID-19 will ensure that everyone in your home is prepared.
Find the joy—and share it with those around you! There’s no sure way of knowing how long the coronavirus quarantine will last. The more you pause to appreciate the small things—a sunny day, a phone call with a dear friend, reading a book—the better.
Community Support Is Key
COVID-19 has impacted every community differently. From ordering takeout to support a local restaurant to picking up groceries for your at-risk neighbors, there are countless ways you can support the people and businesses in your area.
Give to your local food bank. Consider a cash gift, rather than your typical canned donation, which will give the food bank the freedom to use the money where it’s most needed—and avoid spreading germs. Learn more about why cash is best below.
Adopt or foster a furry friend. Animal shelters across the United States and around the world are over capacity, and with adoption events on hold, there’s an even greater need to find animals loving homes. If you have the means and space, why not fill your house with a little extra love and joy by adopting or fostering a four-legged companion?
Support local businesses. Many stores, restaurants, and theaters that have closed their doors are offering online services. Arranging no-contact, curbside pickup or delivery from your favorite food spot, or buying a gift card that you can use at a later date will help community businesses stay open long term.
Smart Giving Saves Lives
Donating to a local or global nonprofit is a wonderful way to support healthcare providers and provide life-saving supplies for individuals who have been diagnosed with COVID-19. In fact, giving cash is one of the most effective ways you can help in the wake of any disaster.
If you feel uncertain about where to give or what organization to give to right now, don’t worry! Here are some COVID-19 giving tips to guide you:
Check out our Smart Giving Checklist for advice on how to donate intentionally and make a lasting impact.
Build confidence in your choice through a third-party. All nonprofits on the GlobalGiving website, for instance, have been thoroughly vetted. Explore our list of nonprofits around the world that need your help to respond to COVID-19. You can also visit watchdog sites like Charity Navigator or Charity Watch to verify the impact of a nonprofit.
Ask your friends and family! Someone you know and trust may be connected to a trusted nonprofit in your area.
Ultimately, it’s not about which organization you donate to or how many times you wash your hands. We hope these COVID-19 giving tips have helped show that each and every one of us has something unique to contribute in the face of COVID-19 and, together, we can and will prevail.
The GlobalGiving Coronavirus Relief Fund supports vetted, community-led nonprofits working to stop the spread of COVID-19 and support vulnerable communities across the globe. Show your support today!
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Featured Photo: COVID-19, World Vision's Global Response by World Vison
