Grand Rapids and West Michigan are facing major shortages of food, cleaning supplies and personal protective equipment (PPE) as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. This lack of basic necessities is putting medical professionals and our community as a whole at risk. In an effort to stop the spread and turn things around, many local organizations are calling on members of the public to make donations.
We know there’s a lot of information out there, and tracking accurate information down isn’t always easy. That’s why we’ve compiled a brief list so you can access everything you need in one place. If you’re able to, try and support one or more of these local organizations.
Mercy Health is facing a shortage of PPE for doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals. Currently, the organization is asking for donations of:
- N-95 and CAPR masks
- Hand sanitizer
- Disinfectant wipes
- Packed food items
- Face shields
If you’re interested in helping, contact Angela Paasche at [email protected] or call (616) 695-1426.
Feeding America – West Michigan
Millions of Americans are now facing food instability because of lost jobs, school closures and reduction in income. To combat these effects, Feeding America is developing several programs, including emergency grants to local food banks, creating an inventory of emergency food boxes and by launching a COVID-19 Response Fund. You can help by donating:
- Non-perishable canned goods
- Boxed items like pasta and crackers
- Canned proteins like tuna
- Money
You might also want to consider donating your time by helping prepare boxes.
The Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services in Grand Rapids is a designated drop-off site for COVID-19 relief. You can make donations from 9 am to 4 pm Monday through Friday. The organization is asking for donations of:
- Prepacked food items
- PPE such as masks and face shields
- Respirators
- Rubber gloves
These are just a few of the local organizations working hard to protect the men, women and families living in our community. Thank you for your consideration. Working together, we can all get through these trying times.