Americans are uniting to help each other during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Be sure to follow CDC guidelines for how to slow the spread of the disease, and consider these simple ways every American can help their neighbors, friends, and families.
- Donate to Nonprofits
Cash donations are the best way to support the nonprofit of your choice. The National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (NVOAD) has a list of organizations supporting COVID-19 response efforts. Guidestar and Great Nonprofits also have search engines to locate organizations that need help.
- Donate or Volunteer Safely with Food Banks and Pantries
Donate to food banks and pantries to help them stock up or volunteer at a food bank that needs help packing and sorting food using safe practices. Visit Feeding America or Food Pantries to find an organization near you.
- Deliver Meals and Groceries to Vulnerable Seniors
Help out someone you know or contact your local Meals on Wheels to learn ways to volunteer.
- Help a School
Check with your area school system to see if they need volunteers to distribute food (or other items) to children and families in need.
- Give Blood
Blood donations have decreased dramatically. Help fill the need by contacting your local Red Cross or other blood donation sites.
- Become a Medical Volunteer
Trained medical volunteers can offer their services by registering with a National VOAD member. Medical professionals and others can help locally by joining the Medical Reserve Corps or registering through the Emergency System for the Advance Registration of Volunteer Health Professionals.
- Donate Medical Supplies and Equipment
If you have medical supplies or equipment to donate, please email FEMA’s National Business Emergency Operations Center at nbeoc@fema.dhs.gov.
- Stay in Touch
Check on your neighbors, friends, and family – especially those who are older or may be alone. A phone call, text, or a conversation through the door could brighten their day.
- Serve in Your Community
Many states are identifying local volunteer opportunities; visit your State Service Commission’s website for details.
- Volunteer from Home
Prefer to volunteer while staying at home? Check out AllForGood.org for service ideas.
For more information on COVID-19, visit Coronavirus.gov, Centers for Disease Control, Government Response to Coronavirus (COVID-19) USA.gov/coronavirus, and FEMA Coronavirus Rumor Control.
Download and Share 10 Ways to Safely Help Your Community During the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Pandemic Graphics.
Visit NationalService.gov/Coronavirus for Coronavirus (COVID-19) Information for CNCS Grantees, Sponsors, Members, and Volunteers.
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