3/27/2020
Support hospitality workers struggling in the economic fallout of COVID-19 across Southeast Louisiana community
Sometimes, even when you feel the most helpless, you actually have the power to do the most good.
As we continue social distancing, it’s natural to feel isolated. Staying away from other people, though necessary, doesn’t fulfill our need to take action, help others, and do something in the face of this crisis.
Fortunately, even in isolation, you can help the most vulnerable among us. Because we are never truly alone in our community.
Here are six things you can do to fight in the face of COVID-19:
Donate to United Way SELA’s Hospitality Cares Pandemic Response Fund. Your gift supports crisis grants serving struggling hospitality workers in our region. Workers are losing wages and tips due to measures necessary to slow the spread of COVID19. Donations to the Hospitality Cares Pandemic Response Fund help ensure these vulnerable individuals can endure the crisis ahead.
Volunteer and help an older adult in need. The United Way/HandsOn Entergy Volunteer Center is seeking volunteers for virtual wellness checks and meal deliveries to at-risk older adults in Orleans Parish. Volunteers can rest assured knowing we are following globally-recognized mobilization procedures and maintaining rigorous safety protocols to keep both volunteers and the meal recipients healthy. Please visit UnitedWaySELA.org/Volunteer for more information.
Direct people to 211. Louisiana 211 is working on the front lines of the pandemic. The Louisiana Department of Health is directing residents to use the 211 network for questions regarding COVID-19. Anyone looking for information about the COVID-19 outbreak can simply dial 211 or text the keyword LACOVID to 898-211.
Spare something for the food pantries. As stores run out of bulk food and toilet paper, food pantries are struggling to fill their shelves, even as more people are coming in for help. Consider donating what you can spare, especially non-perishable food and toiletry items. Call 211 to find out what our local food pantries need most and where to drop off donations.
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.
Take care of your mental health. 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.
If you or a loved one are feeling overwhelmed by this emergency, please call 211 to talk to a Crisis Intervention Specialists ready to listen, provide emotional support and help you develop a safety plan if necessary.
Even in these uncertain times, no one is powerless to make a difference. Small acts, when taken together, can change the course of the pandemic, bolster those facing economic challenges, and protect the most vulnerable among us.
Because we care about you and your families, here are a few additional helpful resources for you:
- Use FamilyWize to save on regular prescriptions while budgets are tight.
- File taxes online for free at MyFreeTaxes.com while our Volunteer Tax Assistance sites are closed.
- Access COVID-19 preparedness and prevention tips and resources from our trusted partners.