HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — COVID-19 doesn't discriminate. Almost everyone is feeling the effects, whether it's from job loss, illness, or separation from family and friends.
#GivingTuesdayNow, usually celebrated the day after #CyberMonday is November, has taken on a new urgency in light on the global health emergency, and has moved to Tuesday, May 5.
And while local non-profits can use whatever funds you can spare, there are ways of giving to your neighbors and community that don't involve your wallet.
Michael Phraner of Huntsville's Downtown Rescue Mission says, "People can show their generosity in a variety of ways during #GivingTuesdayNow, whether it’s helping a neighbor, advocating for an issue, sharing a skill, or giving to causes, every act of generosity counts. The global movement will emphasize opportunities to give back to communities and causes in safe ways that allow for social connection even while practicing physical distancing."
“As a global community, we can mourn this moment of extreme crisis while also finding the opportunity to support one another. We each have the power to make an impact with acts of generosity, no matter how small, and to ensure the sustainability of organizations and servicesthat are crucial to the care and support of our communities,” said Asha Curran, CEO of GivingTuesday. “#GivingTuesdayNow is a chance for us to stand united and use grassroots generosity to show that we are all in this together, beginning to end. Even as many face financial uncertainty, generosity is not about size. We all have something to give, and every act of human consideration and kindness matters.
If you do want to donate money, here are some ways to do that:
Downtown Rescue Mission is trying to raise $10,000 to continue its mission of offering free hot meals, shelter, face masks, and more
Community Foundation of Greater Huntsville has a site where you can see which groups and services are being funded by your donations.
United Way of Madison County is accepting donations for its COVID-19 assistance fund.
United Way of Morgan County has a Community Crisis Fund that you can donate to to help people in Morgan County.
Food Bank of North Alabama will accept food donations but is more in need of financial donations to help provide meals for those in need.
Help local artists by donating to the Individual Artist Emergency Relief Grant Fund through ArtsHuntsville.org.
...and these are only a fraction of non-profits that you can help to help those in need.
But money isn't everything, and any way you choose to give, whether it's the gift of time, skills, or just being there for someone in need, makes a difference.
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