Yes, we are supposed to isolate during this period, but it is also a time of crisis for many Americans and there is some important work that can be done if you are willing to accept some risk. However, there are also opportunities to help out from home.
First off, the simplest things we can all do:
Support small businesses as much as you can! Most small businesses do not sit on piles of surplus cash that will allow them to coast through this shutdown. Many of them will not survive without your support. Many restaurants are offering no contact door delivery or curbside pickup and retail shops are adapting similar practices. If you know of a small business that you really would like to have around after we can all go out again, make sure you support them during this time!
If you live in an apartment building where there are residents in other units consider taking turns sterilizing things you all have to touch, such as door handles, railings, and elevator buttons. Many apartment buildings do not have staff that are doing this.
Food Pantries in Parsippany Area:
Parsippany Christian Church – (973) 335-7176
Parsippany Social Services, Lake Hiawatha, NJ – (973) 263-7163
Reformed Church of Boonton, Boonton, NJ – (973) 334-0317
Interfaith Food Pantry, Morris Plains, NJ 07950 – (973) 538-8049
Work-from-home opportunities include “Self-Help,” which connects isolated seniors through shared interests like music and art and the “Crisis Text Line,” which offers text-based counseling to help with coronavirus-related stress.
If you are comfortable going to NYC, they are one of the worst places hit by the virus and need lots of help.
A nonprofit organization, partners with local nonprofits to identify needs and implement volunteer projects to meet these needs. Select the login button in the upper right corner to create a Jersey Cares Volunteer Profile.
Donate Blood
Locations that normally host blood drives are closed, blood donation has decreased, and we are facing a grave nation-wide blood shortage. If you are eligible to donate blood, check out your local blood center. You can check in with the American Red Cross, or find a local organization in your state here.
Making Calls to Homebound and Elderly People decreased mass socialization can have an even greater impact on elderly or disabled individuals who live alone. Check out DOROT and other local organizations and register to call an elderly or homebound person, to check in and let them know that they matter. It will help combat their isolation, and yours, too.
Making and delivering supplies for healthcare workers
If you have access to a 3D printer or a car, you might be eligible to make or shuttle personal protective equipment to hospital workers in need. Check out www.covidmakerresponse.com to register to help. And they are doing this all for free, so please consider donating to their efforts.
Don’t forget to thank our essential workers during this time mail carriers, hospital workers, custodial workers, grocery store and drugstore workers remain working, often in ways that expose them to the virus, during this time.
And of course, the easiest way to help out without leaving your home is to donate to any non-profits of your choosing if you can spare it!