How Californians Can Help Their Communities During COVID-19

These times are certainly unprecedented, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed when so many people are struggling. But there are several ways to give back during the coronavirus pandemic, whether that be in person or from the comfort and safety of your own home. Here are four easy—but impactful—ways to lend a helping hand to your local community and beyond.

How to Help Others During Coronavirus

Support Food Banks and Shelters

The Los Angeles Regional Food Bank is in immediate need of monetary donations, so you can help this nonprofit no matter where you live. But if you live locally and want to help in additional ways, check the website for information on how to become a volunteer and what measures are being taken to ensure your safety.

Providing hot, nutritious meals to help end hunger in Los Angeles, the Hollywood Food Coalition is another nonprofit in need of donations and volunteers. Check the website for more details on the ways to volunteer and the safety measures being taken.

You can also donate supplies to City Net, which aids the underhoused and unhoused populations of Southern California. The organization’s website lists the specific food, hygiene products, and other items needed as well as the donation drive-up times and locations.

Angelenos can find even more ways to fight hunger and homelessness through L.A. Works. Whether you want to help from home or in-person, you can easily discover an array of volunteer opportunities for various nonprofits.

Give Blood

According to the American Red Cross, blood donations have drastically decreased as of late, but the need is still there! Contact your local Red Cross to find out when and where you can safely donate blood. 

Reach Out to Neighbors

During this time, it is important to remember those who are at a higher risk of getting COVID-19, such as the elderly and people with pre-existing health conditions or illnesses—they could all use some help! If you know of anyone on your street or in your neighborhood who falls into these categories, consider leaving a note on their door asking if they need someone to pick up groceries or medicine for them. Despite the shelter-in-place mandate, these essential errands must be done, so doing them for someone who doesn’t have the luxury of feeling safe could be life-saving.

Check California Volunteers

Want more? Visit California Volunteers to discover other ways to help organizations near you. If you run an organization and are in need of volunteers, email info@cv.ca.gov so your organization can be added to the website. 

Remember that this is a strange and different time for everyone, so if you’re able to help or pay it forward in any way, it could seriously make someone’s day. We’re all in this together, and lending a helping hand to your fellow Californian right now is the right thing to do. 

Stay safe, practice social distancing, and wash your hands—and try to stay positive!