Crises can bring out the best or the worst in people, and these young New Yorkers are definitely showing how we can work together to help those most in need during these tough times.
Two New York college students named Liam Elkind and Simone Policano were able to recruit 1,300 volunteers in 72 hours (according to the Associated Press) to help to bring groceries, medicine, plus some socialization and a cheery face to older New Yorkers stuck indoors.
They are calling the group “Invisible Hands,” and you can sign up to volunteer or request deliveries on their website here.
They have safety measures in place of course: volunteers are not allowed if they have traveled out of the country or come into contact with a sick person in the last 14 days, and must be practicing social distancing, according to their website. They also are sure to wear gloves while delivering and shopping, and to continuously disinfect the items and bags.
As for how it works, their website states: “Once you sign up, we will contact you as requests in your indicated neighborhood(s) come in. We’ll send you a message with the nearby request, and upon your confirmation we will put you in touch with the delivery recipient with instructions.”
Though bags are left at the door, the deliverers are sure to talk to the person through the door about how they’re doing or just making small talk to help them feel less alone.
They’re currently serving New York City and parts of New Jersey, and will be expanding to other states soon. By organizing digitally (it all began on Facebook), anything is possible!
featured image source: Shutterstock