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Help Where It's Needed

Wed, 04/08/2020 - 17:41

There seem to be almost as many nonprofit organizations and not a few businesses seeking help amid the Covid-19 crisis as there are people willing to lend a hand or offer financial support. Children, pet shelters, the hungry, victims of domestic violence, news media, ambulance volunteers, medical workers — the list is nearly endless.

People are making masks to prevent the airborne spread of the virus. Others are taking part in “meal trains” to feed hospital staff. Some are quietly buying groceries for older friends and neighbors. Musicians perform to unseen audiences watching from somewhere in the cybersphere. There are online yoga teachers sharing their wisdom and advice about meditation to keep us on an even keel. Someone has been making fairy houses along paths in the woods for walkers to find. Several someones have painted rocks and clams with bright colors and hopeful messages, and left them along sidewalks or on the beach. While so much else is at a standstill, the charitable impulse thrives.

There is tremendous value to keeping busy during times of trouble. Doing good for others is one way to do that. For young people used to the regularity of school and social life enjoyed far away from parents or annoying siblings, the forced isolation can present true mental health challenges. Talking and checking in on others is more important now than ever.

An act as simple as picking up litter along a roadside can provide valuable away time and a sense of accomplishment. Even housework seems strangely more satisfying, though perhaps not for most kids, we must admit.

Choosing from among the many places to give support can be daunting. We can highlight a few that caught our eye this week. These include the Bridgehampton Child Care and Recreational Center, which needs additional money to get internet service to several students’ homes as well as computers for families that have none. Houses of worship have dipped into their bank accounts for those in need of household or virus-related help. Your dollars can certainly bolster their ability to get aid where it is important. The food pantries need cash now more than ever; nearly every hamlet has one and will welcome contributions.

This is a stressful time. Giving when one can or lending a hand in other ways can remind us that we are all in this together.


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