4 ways you can help others during the coronavirus pandemic

During these challenging times, it’s truly inspiring that so many people are lending a helping hand to those in need. We’d like to echo a message from the United Way: “No one is powerless to make a difference. Small acts, taken together across the community, can change the course of the pandemic, bolster those facing economic challenges, and protect the most vulnerable.”
 
According to the United Way, here are four things you can do to help others in the face of COVID-19:
 
  1. Encourage those in need to dial “211.” If you or someone you know needs help, please tell them about United Way’s 211, a free and confidential service that connects residents to help 24/7/365 in multiple languages. Residents across Minnesota can call 211 or 1-800-543-7709, or visit www.211unitedway.org. 211 connects people to resources like:
    • Health and mental health assistance
    • Financial coaching
    • Transportation
    • Affordable housing and rent assistance
    • Disaster recovery
    • Utility assistance
  2. Stay connected to family and friends, especially those who may be vulnerable. Call your friends and family. Loneliness is as damaging as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. Even during isolation, modern technology allows us to stay connected. Checking in on friends and family is more than polite right now, it’s essential. And don’t forget elderly neighbors or others living alone.
  3. Take care of yourself. If you’re stuck at home, keep busy with hobbies, try out arts and crafts, pick up an old musical instrument, organize family game nights, and step outside for fresh air and exercise. You can’t take care of others unless you take care of yourself.
  4. Donate. The United Way of Olmsted County, Rochester Area Foundation, Think Bank, and other community partners have developed and are supporting the TOGETHER: Greater Rochester Area COVID-19 Community Support Fund. The fund is designed to provide financial resources quickly and easily to local nonprofits that are experiencing unforeseen challenges and issues due to the ongoing crisis. Donate here for the Rochester-area fund.
In the metro area, the Greater Twin Cities United Way is coordinating the Greater Twin Cities COVID-19 Response & Recovery Fund. Donate here for the Twin Cities fund.
 
Source: United Way of Olmsted County & Greater Twin Cities United Way