In the wake of Covid-19 and the massive shutdown of numerous American businesses one population has been almost entirely forgotten. The homeless population of Portland is left with a dwindling number of services and places to seek shelter from the elements. With libraries closed and a lack of volunteers due to age and health guidelines, many service providers are left understaffed and underfunded.
If you or your loved ones are above 60 or immune-compromised we implore you to continue to shelter in place and stay safe. However, if you are healthy, able, and feel comfortable there are dozens of social services agencies desperately in need of volunteers. If you don't feel comfortable there are other ways you can help without actually being present on the site. Meals on Wheels needs people to help buy ingredients for meals, just take an extra person shopping and fill two carts. We here at the Eco project personally reached out to the volunteer director at Transition Projects Inc (TPI) to ask about ways you could give back to these vulnerable populations. Here is a brief description of some opportunities available at TPI:
On-site service: Mailroom, Resource Organizing, Notes to staff, Mask-making, Providing meals, or Organizing donation drive. You can find more information about all these opportunities in the link provided below. It is important to note that TPI is providing its volunteer training online right now.
To conclude, please remember everyone how much we are all suffering right now. As a community, we must all come together and support one another to get through these tragic times It seems scary to go out and risk your health for others and volunteering may not be essential to you or your family, but some populations depend on the services provided, a few volunteers can make the difference, and prevent families from going hungry. One last time if you are not comfortable volunteering in person, but still want to help reach out to a service provider to ask about virtual volunteering opportunities or consider organizing a food donation zone in your neighborhood.
For more information about how to help your North West community please see the article below:
https://www.opb.org/news/article/coronavirus-help-oregon-washington-volunteer-donate-give-blood/
Written by: Spenser Belch, Portland State University
Written by: Spenser Belch, Portland State University
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