After many challenging weeks, we are relieved to see that our collective efforts to “flatten the curve” are largely working. As a result of this progress, the needs of Michigan’s healthcare system are changing. As always, we are quickly adapting our volunteer program to meet these evolving needs.
While we are still matching some volunteers to hospitals, we are seeing new demands emerge. For example, we are working to match volunteers with long-term care facilities, like nursing homes, where staffing shortages are taking a significant toll. In addition, we will be reaching out to behavioral health professionals soon to support Michigan’s new COVID-19 crisis counseling hotline. You will be contacted if we are able to match your skill set and availability to our current healthcare requests.
In the meantime, while you wait for a potential volunteer placement, please know there are many ways you can help with Michigan’s COVID-19 response. Here are five ways you can support your fellow Michiganders starting today:
- Donate blood or plasma to the American Red Cross.
- Train to be a crisis counselor, providing mental health support from home through the Crisis Text Line.
- Purchase meals for Michigan families and seniors in need through the Food Bank Council of Michigan’s Virtual Food Drive.
- Find volunteer opportunities in your local community through Volunteer Michigan.
- Pack and distribute meals or tutor students with the United Way’s community partners.