5 Ways to Help Your Community
The coronavirus crisis is affecting the way every one of us goes about our daily lives. In this stormiest of storms, kindness has the power to make a bigger difference than ever before.
Whether it’s reaching out to an isolated neighbour or simply thinking of the needs of others as you do your weekly shop, we all have a part to play in supporting each other.
Even though we’re distanced from each other, we’re all in this together. Kindness comes in many forms, and there’s something every single one of us can do to help.
1. Check-in with your neighbours
This is the BEST way you can help. Send a text, email, phone them or leave a note under their door – however you do it, just let them know you’re thinking about them, and ask if they need anything.
One of our Link friends, John, told us:
“My neighbours have been so kind to me. A lady across the road leaves me some home-cooked meals in containers on my doorstep with a nice note. I don’t do much cooking these days, so it was much appreciated.”
2. Help with food and essentials
There are hundreds of older people in Wokingham who are ‘shielding’. While everyone is being advised to keep their distance from other people to help stop the spread, some people with underlying health conditions need to take even more precautions to protect themselves. This means they’re unable to go out to the shops to get their food.
If you know your neighbours are shielding, you could offer to do their shopping for them (leaving it on their doorstep and reminding them to wash their hands after putting it away). You might also be able to help with dog walking or posting their mail.
3. Donate to the Community Hub
The community distribution hub needs your donations: please donate any extra food, toiletries and other essentials by dropping them off at our no contact drop off centre at St Crispin’s Leisure Centre, London Road, Wokingham.
Other drop off points will open soon. Check the Wokingham Community Hub Facebook page for the latest information.
4. Become a telephone buddy
If you have extra time after helping your neighbours or vulnerable friends and family, we’re matching volunteers to older people who would love to have a weekly chat on the phone. We’re also looking for volunteers to drop off essential food and supplies to vulnerable people. If you’re keen to get involved, click below.
5. Donate a goody bag
We’re keen to try and cheer up those who are struggling with the crisis with wellbeing goody bags. Along the lines of the Christmas shoe-box appeal, you can get involved by putting together a bag of goodies and treats. You can also refer someone you know would love to receive one.
