Still in its infancy, the new decade has thrown us some major curve balls already. In January our homes were under threat of bushfires, now they’re our safe haven as we watch a global pandemic unfold. Our social diaries are emptying out at lightning speed while our inboxes are bulging with updates from every company we ever bought a pair of socks from.
It’s unsettling but if anything, we have become more determined in our resolve to look out for those around us: the elderly, friends in self-isolation, colleagues working from home, neighbours who lost their job, local business owners who are doing it tough, and so on.
Here are some ways to help those around us.
Everyone. Wants. To. Talk.
Call a friend to see how they’re coping or have a chat with a colleague who’s working from home. Chances are, calls no longer go straight to voicemail and you’ll have an answer within three rings. Social isolation is proving to be a big challenge already so let’s make sure we keep connected.
Caremongering
The best thing to come out of Canada since maple syrup, Caremongering is an initiative where communities get together to support local businesses, offer skills or simply connect. Check out Facebook for your nearest community group (or set one up yourself).
Shop local
Local shops are in danger of being decimated and need all the support we can give. Most will have rigorous handwashing/social distancing practices in place, but you’re uncomfortable browsing in store, just have a look at their website or order by phone for a click and collect.
Community building
What can you do for those within your community who are struggling? People are offering to do shopping, run errands, collect medicine, borrow library books and DVDs and other support for the elderly (these printable postcards are a great resource). Neighbourhood centres and homeless shelters are also finding it hard to keep up so give them a call and see how you can help.
More inspiration?
Articles that discuss how communities are binding together are now regularly published. Here are three great articles from the ABC, The Age and the BBC:
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-03-18/coronavirus-community-response-to-covid19/12063224
