“Never let a good crisis go to waste” – Winston Churchill

As COVID-19 sweeps across the globe, this health crisis will have an indelible impact on our society, economy, politics – virtually every aspect of our environment.  I also share Mr. Churchill’s firmly established belief that challenges and tribulations are formidable opportunities for innovation, fortification, and generosity of the human spirit.

So let’s not let this crisis go to waste.  If you have even a dollar or moment to spare, consider donating — here are some suggestions to start.

CDC Foundation

Many people are familiar with the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.  But did you know that there is a charitable organization that works closely with them?  The CDC Foundation’s mission is “The CDC Foundation helps CDC do more, faster by forging partnerships between CDC and others to fight threats to health and safety.”, and their vision is “Save and improve lives by unleashing the power of collaboration.”.  They are accepting donations that fund philanthropic efforts to help in areas impacted by diseases like COVID-19.

Feeding America

As of today, the state-mandated lockdowns have annihilated large sections of our once-prosperous economy, propelling a total of 22 million people out of work.  So consider food-based charities as they are becoming exponentially more essential than ever. Feeding America runs food banks across the nation, which provide meals to those without any other option. The amount of people visiting food banks has increased significantly, so Feeding America has been adding to their capabilities, including sending mobile food banks out into communities where people are unable to travel or may be higher-risk.

Direct Relief

Right now, healthcare professionals (HCPs) in the US are struggling to find adequate PPE (personal protective equipment) and other medical supplies to treat COVID-19 patients, as well as their usual patients. Direct Relief is helping to provide these supplies to the frontline HCPs who need them the most. As inadequate PPE can lead to HCPs becoming ill, as well as potentially spreading COVID-19, Direct Relief’s efforts are important in ensuring our medical system continues to run efficiently and effectively.

There are many more charities that you can support that are fighting COVID-19’s spread, as well as helping to support people and communities that have been hit by the virus. Whether choosing to donate locally or nationally, let’s do our part to help our fellow man and woman.