News & Blog

The COVID-19 crisis has caused hardship for many individuals and families in Southeast Michigan. For those with the time or means to help others, take a moment and ask yourself: What am I doing now to directly benefit my community? If you’re not sure or want to do more, here are a few ideas to get started.

1. Donate Supplies to Vulnerable Populations in Detroit

The Neighborhood Service Organization (NSO) needs help gathering supplies to serve the needs of vulnerable groups in Detroit during this time of crisis. You can help by donating supplies like disinfectant wipes, face masks, snack packs, sweat pants, hand sanitizer, and more. Reach out to your friends, family, and coworkers to make it a team effort.

View the full Amazon wishlist of items needed and learn more about how to participate.

2. Sign Up to Volunteer with Forgotten Harvest

Help end hunger and food waste in Southeastern Michigan by volunteering with Forgotten Harvest. Pack and distribute food boxes, help harvest vegetables on the farm, or find other ways to contribute your unique skills by contacting volunteer@forgottenharvest.org.

If you’re planning on volunteering, consider getting tested for COVID-19 first. If you choose not to, make sure you are not experiencing symptoms of the virus and have not knowingly been exposed before volunteering.

3. Consider Becoming a Volunteer Literacy Tutor

You can make a difference in someone’s life by dedicating two hours a week to tutoring an adult in English. Help someone learn to read a prescription bottle, workplace memo, or insurance policy, a skill most of us take for granted. The Oakland Literacy Council gives tutors comprehensive training in preparation for the program so no previous experience is required.

Join a Zoom tutor information session on July 8 to learn more about the program.

4. Contact Your Legislators to Advocate for a Cause Important to You

Call, email, or tweet your U.S. senator and representative to ask them to support a cause you’re passionate about. Whether it’s advocating for Michigan families, racial equality, COVID-19 relief, or resources for vulnerable populations in the Detroit region — this is your chance to make your voice heard.

Do some research online to help guide what you want to say. You might even find some sample letters or emails on your cause. If you’re planning on calling, write a script ahead of time and practice to make sure you can deliver the message strongly without hiccups.

Written by Melanie Barnett