Wondering how to help? Charities to Donate to During Coronavirus
Covid-19 was named a pandemic on March 11, 2020, leaving many at-risk communities, industry workers vulnerable. Nonprofits across the US are calling and asking for help in light of the current climate. Here is a list of nonprofit organizations needing your support.
As schools are shutting, food insecurity is affecting families as children are unable to rely on free or discounted meals at school. Over 11 million children in the US live in food-insecure homes. During this time of need, No Kid Hungry is feeding hungry kids as schools are closed. A donation of $10 can help provide 100 meals to children.
The Red Cross has called for blood donors, as many have decided not to donate in the short term. Red Cross has ensured that all facilities follow strict policies and are calling on donors to give blood whilst they can.
Please check the Red Cross website for more information. Depending on your travel history, you will not be able to donate blood.
Covid-19 is most harmful to the elderly and those with existing health conditions like those who are immunocompromized. Those who are at greater risk should stay at home as much as possible. Meals on Wheels is delivering meals to the elderly, as many are quarantining at home. A $55 donation provides meals for one week.
As more Americans fear coronavirus, there have been many instances where Asian Americans have been unfairly treated, experiencing discrimination against their businesses, xenophobic behavior from both the media and community leaders. Race Forward is a non-profit that works to bring unity amongst all people, no matter their race. Donations support their team to speak to news media and at conferences on issues concerning racial justice.
Emergency Coronavirus Workers Support Fund
The Emergency Coronavirus Workers Support Fund is on a mission to raise $213,000 to support tipped restaurant workers. Tipped restaurant workers are legally allowed to be paid $2.13/hour, with the hope that tips will supply the rest. The organization is providing no-strings-attached funds to impacted workers who are now unable to work. A donation of $22 will provide 10 hours of pay to a hospitality worker who is now unable to work.
As the government has called for event organizers to cancel gatherings, many musicians, artists, and crew are unable to work for an unknown period of time. MusiCares is providing financial aid to those affected in the industry. While the Recording Academy is most famously known for the GRAMMYs, MusiCares provides emergency aid and protects the rights of artists. Donations provide short-term financial assistance for needs such as rent, payments, and other basic living expenses.
Seattle WA, saw the earliest outbreak of COVID-19 in the United States. Philanthropists, government, and business partners have come together, creating the COVID-19 Response Fund. The fund will continue to resource community-based organizations at the frontlines of the outbreak. The funds raised will be designated between residents without health insurance, healthcare and gig economy workers and others who have been most impacted by COVID-19.
As volunteer activity has declined in the past week, Food Banks all across the country are calling for increased donations. Panic buying is resulting in low to no stock in certain household items. With each community having different needs, click on the link above to find your local food bank and ask what items they are most in need of.
Homeless communities are most at risk during this pandemic as they are unable to self-quarantine and have little to no access to hygiene facilities. Coalition for the Homeless New York is asking for donations for their Grand Central Food program in order to continue to provide 1000+ daily meals to the homeless.
SupportRestaurants.org is an initiative that allows restaurants to sell vouchers to be used at a later time. With a 25% discount, diners can purchase $100 gift certificates for $75. This is a great way to continue to support small businesses within your community. No restaurants near you? You can suggest this to your local restaurants as any vendor can sign up.
