How can I help during COVID-19?

April 2, 2020

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Medical Volunteers: Connecticut’s hospitals, nursing home and medical facilities are in desperate need of medical volunteers. Governor Lamont is urging anyone with experience in healthcare to register on the healthcare volunteer registry at https://ctresponds.ct.gov.

Feeding Programs: Many food pantries and soup kitchens rely on volunteers in order to assist the community and provide food to people in need. To find volunteer opportunities in your area, visit senatorformica.com OR check with www.211ct.org to get connected to operations close to you by providing your zip code.

Community Emergency Response Teams: If residents are interested in joining a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) to volunteer during the COVID response, local Emergency Management Directors can swear in new members after they complete an on-line course on FEMA’s website.

DONATION OPPORTUNITIES

Medical Supply Donations: the state has activated a framework for donations and items to sell of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) – protective clothing, masks, helmets, goggles, or other garments or equipment designed to protect the wearer’s body from injury or infection that are utilized by people providing healthcare services. Members of the public, businesses, and philanthropic organizations that wish to donate these vital materials should fill out the online form located at www.211ct.org/DonationsCOVID19Items should be new, unopened, and not expired.

Blood Donations: The American Red Cross now faces a severe blood shortage due to an unprecedented number of blood drive cancellations during this coronavirus outbreak. Eligible donors can find a blood or platelet donation opportunity and schedule an appointment to donate by contacting the Red Cross online or via phone: https://www.redcrossblood.org/ct  1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or the free Blood Donor App

Monetary Donations: The best way to get help to individuals in need is to make a monetary donation to a reputable fund like the United Way: 

  • The Connecticut United Ways have launched a statewide COVID-19 Response Fund. Donated funds will be used to serve community and state level needs. Visit this link to donate: www.CTUWCovid19ResponseFund.org
  • United Way Worldwide: Has established the COVID-19 Community Response and Recovery Fund to support communities affected by COVID-19. Donations from the fund will help the most vulnerable populations receive critical financial and social service support.