How can I help?

How Can I Help?

There is no doubt COVID-19 is causing great upheaval in our society. Social distancing restrictions
necessary to prevent the virus spreading are causing considerable financial and social stress to many sectors and groups within our communities. If you, however, find yourself with a bit of time on your hands, wondering how you can make a difference, here are some top tips…

Give Blood

Australia needs 29,000 blood donations every week to maintain supply for a variety of uses. Lives
depend on donated blood, it helps people recover from surgery, accidents and even cancer. Regular blood donors may be self-isolating if they are in vulnerable groups so it’s up to the rest of us to bridge the gap. If you are generally well and healthy check out how to donate here https://www.donateblood.com.au/one-step-closer

Support food banks and charities

As more people face financial hardship and food insecurity, these organisations will be relied upon more than ever to support people in need. Usual fundraising activities have been curtailed reducing their ability to maintain their community service delivery. (See our story on The Lighthouse.) https://warwickfriendlysociety.com.au/community-focus-the-lighthouse/

Support local businesses

The best way to keep people employed is for the public to keep buying products/services. Local cafes and other discretionary goods providers are going to be hardest hit by the pandemic as people stop spending. Consider buying takeaway from local cafes or gift vouchers you can spend later.

Reach out – make a call, write a note or a letter

Connect with a neighbour, friend or older relative during this time. A card, letter or phone call could make a big difference in someone’s day. You may also like to check if they need any help. Consider helping with shopping, dropping off scripts or a regular call. (Don’t forget to observe social distancing!) Let them know Warwick Friendly Society can help with home delivery of medications and pharmacy items. If you don’t know your neighbours, you can use a Queensland Health Kindness Card to break the ice. http://www.qld.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0018/121716/assistance-card.pdf

Volunteer

Some volunteers are reducing their usual involvement, especially if they are in a particularly
vulnerable group or have to provide increased support for family and friends. Whilst some not-forprofit activity is on hold, other volunteer roles are now in higher demand such as community transport, community visitor schemes, food banks and other community delivery services such as Meals on Wheels. There may also be opportunities for volunteering online. Or consider joining the Care Army. https://www.covid19.qld.gov.au/carearmy

Check out your local Community Radio station – Rose City FM

Rose City FM has their finger on the pulse of our community and brings a mix of culture and
entertainment that you may find refreshing in these trying times. Rose City FM depends heavily on volunteers and support from local businesses who are also doing it tough and may have to withdraw or downsize their financial contributions. By engaging with these community groups we are demonstrating our solidarity in supporting services that mean a lot to listeners who are doing it tough. So tune in! https://rosecityfm.org.au/

Adapted from Volunteering North Queensland – http://www.vnq.org.au/our-top-picks-for-how-youcan-support-your-community-during-the-covid-19-pandemic