When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.”

Mister Rogers

In times like these, not only can we look for the helpers, we can find even more fulfillment by being one. 

While it serves no purpose for anyone to put themselves in harm’s way if they are not adequately trained to do so safely, many of us can still give back to our community in its time of need. 

Some examples are listed below: 

• Foster a pet: Uncertain finances will lead to an increased number of abandoned animals in shelters. 
• Donate blood: This may not be possible for those under age 18, but college students and adults can give back by giving blood. 
• Check on elderly neighbors: Do their grocery shopping if you feel you can do so safely or just make sure to call them regularly. They will be even more isolated than the rest of us and may need more human contact in whatever form possible. 
• Volunteer Virtually: Idealist has a list of volunteer opportunities in classrooms and communities across the globe 
• Don’t waste your food: Take extra care to freeze food before it expires, don’t wash produce until you’re ready for it, and store raw and cooked food properly. 
• Clean out your closets: You may have to hold off on making your donations depending on restrictions, but be prepared to donate to your local shelter, Good Will, or Salvation Army as soon as you are able to. 
• Send notes: Send cards and letters to your local nursing homes or write thank you notes to your local health care workers!