More than half of the world’s global workforce today, which is about 3.3 billion workers, is adversely affected by the pandemic. Many are on the verge of losing their source of income. That’s the enormous impact the COVID-19 has had on the economy. So many people are struggling to make sure they do not fall into poverty. Couple that with the existential threat of the virus, and these times are certainly on top of the list as the worst of times.
It certainly feels like the “end of times.” Many, bewildered and caught in a cycle of depression, have lost hope. Indeed, all the economic hardships and the dangers brought about by the virus boils down to a massive attack on mental health for countless Americans.
But as a woman, it’s never too late to help. Besides sanitizing or washing your hands, observing social distancing, and obeying all the laid down rules to stay safe, there is more you can do. You can take steps to help people or communities that have been affected by this pandemic.
By doing so, you give your sanity a timely boost, not to mention ease other lives. If you’re wondering where to get started, fret not. Here some ways women can make lending a hand count.
Charity
COVID-19 has created new needs and at the same time put great financial pressure on non-profit organizations. This pandemic produces an unheard-of chaotic situation from public and medical health issues caused by the uncertain economy affecting the vulnerable population.
For one, nonprofit organizations working to ensure that those needs are met need a lot of resources. Even though they are not responding directly to this crisis, they still feel the pressure. The financial uncertainties caused by this pandemic may affect the donors and cause them to back down.
Also, a lot of nonprofit organizations are canceling most of their fundraising events and usual programs. This is because they are concerned for the safety of the public. Their financial reserves are limited and can barely cater to the difficult times ahead, which puts them in a challenging position.
So you can assist by making a direct donation to help fight the pandemic. You can make a great difference by supporting the medical needs both locally and internationally and giving your support to those organizations serving those affected by the spread of the virus and the associated economic meltdown.
All the nonprofit organizations you usually support will need your unwavering financial support in a time like this. You can maintain your usual level of support or increase it. This will go a long way in helping these organizations continue their work and get through this crisis.
Community Service
Considering some health and safety factors, many regular volunteers, especially those who have a higher risk because of age or underlying conditions, will have to limit their normal commitment.
As a result, the nonprofit organizations that depend greatly on volunteers will be limited in how much critical service they can offer. There will continue to be a rise in need as the virus spreads. For instance, there might be an increased demand for food, which will increase the need for more volunteers to deliver.
Thankfully, you can help by reaching out to some local organizations and finding ways to support them. But always have safety at the back of your mind. You can also check online for any volunteer opportunity in your vicinity. There are other things you can do from home to support the mission of the nonprofits. They include grant writing for the organization and acting as a counselor on their hotline service.
If you can volunteer and safely handle one necessary task or the other, it will go a long way in helping these organizations achieve their goal of helping those in need.
Advocacy Partners
So many people are concerned, but they are not sure how they can help the situation. The problems being created by this pandemic are far-reaching and too great for one group or an individual to tackle. That is why advocates can be a big boost.
These groups may not directly be at the forefront. Rather, they support non-profit organizations, and front liners do their job. For instance, you have patient advocacy group partnerships. By supporting patient support and advocacy organizations, these partnerships ensure such advocacy achieve more, and do more.
You can also help advocacy partners. For one, you can help recruit and expand awareness. The good news is via the internet, sharing information on different platforms, on social media, with your family and friends is a lot easier.
Make a Difference
As you gain knowledge on how people get affected and what their needs are, you need to share the information. By doing so, you let people know what steps can be taken to change things and make a difference.
As a woman, you may be but one. But like a candle lighted, you can share knowledge and help others be aware. As a result, you start a ripple effect and create change in the process.
