How You Can Help During the Coronavirus Crisis
The COVID-19 pandemic has put a strain on essential resources and simultaneously increased the need for help. While the state of Connecticut is encouraging people to stay at home whenever possible, there are still many opportunities to help during the coronavirus crisis, from donations to volunteering. Below are some of the ways you can make a difference.
Donating PPEs (Personal Protective Equipment)
Governor Ned Lamont has issued a request for Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs) for medical workers. The list of items needed includes:
- N95 Respirators
- Face Masks and Surgical Masks
- Face Shields
- Surgical Gowns
- Gloves (nitrile, or non-latex)
- Thermometers and covers
- Hand Sanitizer
- Other Medical Items
To donate PPEs, submit this form via 2-1-1.
Tracking the Spread of COVID-19
You can participate in Connecticut's Contact Tracing Program via ContaCT, a confidential statewide software system to monitor the health and well being of people affected by COVID-19. Get details on the program and how you can volunteer here.
Organizations Seeking Volunteers
4-CT is Connecticut's COVID-19 Charity Connection. Donate to them here.
Both health professionals and others can sign up at CTResponds, the state's volunteer registry.
Connecticut Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster includes a searchable database of organizations in need of volunteers, who do not have professional medical experience.
2-1-1 of Connecticut is providing a searchable database of organizations looking for volunteers.
While Blood Drives are canceled, the American Red Cross is still facing a shortage during the Coronavirus crisis. You can contact your local office to schedule a time to donate.
You can volunteer in your area as part of a Community Emergency Response Team. New volunteers can be sworn in after completing an introductory training course. Register here.
You can donate to support Connecticut Food Bank.
Foodshare is also accepting volunteers for pantries, Mobile Foodshare sites, and Meal Connect, a service which coordinates food donations to pantries and shelters, and is also accepting monetary donations.
Many schools are providing meals to students while schools are closed. There may be volunteer opportunities in your school district. Contact your local school district directly, or the state Department of Education for more details.
If you have experience in Peer Support, CT Mutual Aid is looking for volunteers for their web based support program Life in My Days.
Ways to Support the Community and Those in Need
Offer to run errands/ go shopping for people more susceptible to Coronavirus.
Buy gift cards to local businesses you want to support
Tip well. If you are able, leave a larger tip than usual to show your appreciation for your local restaurants and their workers.
Youth Service of America has a list of things young people can help during the Coronavirus emergency.
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