Contribute to the Mission During COVID-19
Our Connection Group leaders and Care Team are working hard to identify needs and mobilize support to those that are in need in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Our Connection group leaders are seeking to care for the needs within their groups, and our Care Team has faithfully reached out to those who aren’t in groups. As needs are identified, they are pairing them with volunteers that are willing to help. Many in our church family have stepped up to offer their assistance, and we praise God for you!
If you'd like to contribute as needs arise within our church, please volunteer here. If you or someone you know needs prayer or assistance, please send prayer requests to our prayer team or send your needs to the care team. We want to be a part of bearing each other’s burdens, especially in this time!
additional ways you can serve our community right now
Donate to local hospitals
Hospitals are running low on personal protective equipment (PPE) and are in need of items like N95 respirator masks, disinfectant wipes, hand sanitizer and liquids, soaps, goggles and disposable gloves. If you have an abundance of any of these items in your home or see some at the store, area hospitals could use your help. Contact a hospital near you, or visit https://getusppe.org/give
Donate or volunteer at a food bank
The Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona has opportunities for healthy people to pack emergency food boxes in a social-distancing way. You can volunteer or find out more about volunteering by clicking here. They are currently unable to accept food donations, but you can give financially by clicking here. Just $1 provides 4 meals.
Help your neighbors
Here’s nine ways to love your neighbor in this pandemic, with ideas like dropping off groceries, offering babysitting, and video chatting with people who are stuck inside. Here’s a “Kindness Postcard” you can share with your neighbors without spreading germs.
Buy gift cards or order take-out from local restaurants
Restaurants have been ordered to close for dine-in, and many employees have been laid off. The Arizona Daily Star has compiled a database of over 450 restaurants that are still open for pick-up and delivery. Purchasing gift cards or picking up take-out can help keep local businesses afloat until they’re able to reopen. Consider buying your coffee from a local coffee shop instead of the grocery store.
Donate blood
The Red Cross is experiencing a “severe” blood shortage as many drives have been cancelled due to the pandemic. They have put extra precautions in place, like checking each person's temperature before they enter the building and keeping donors six feet apart. The staff follows protocol by wearing gloves throughout the process and is cleaning surfaces between donors. To find a blood drive, click here.
Volunteer remotely
Alone is an organization that provides companionship to the elderly through phone calls. iCouldBe is a student mentorship program that helps all the students who are now distance learners. Crisis Text Line is looking for remote crisis counselors and provides free training.
Volunteer for pima county
Sign up as a volunteer in Pima County with the Arizona Emergency System for Advance Registration of Volunteer Health Professionals. Follow the instructions to sign up as a faith-based volunteer or as a medical professional, depending on your credentials.