As the coronavirus pandemic widens, the need for food, supplies, and protective gear increases. There are a number of New Orleans organizations dedicated to collecting these items, and even some that welcome volunteers to help in the process. While monetary donations are always a great way to support these initiatives, here’s a few ways you can quite literally lend a helping hand.  

Donate Supplies

Sew Dat

With the CDC now recommending the use of cloth face coverings to help slow the spread of coronavirus, there’s a new campaign that’s been launched to mitigate the shortage. Sew Dat encourages those with a sewing machine to make these face coverings and donate to this cause so that public employees and essential workers may have access to them. Essential business owners and employees can also request coverings through this site.   

Junior League of New Orleans

The Junior League of New Orleans launched its diaper bank in 2014 and is now needed more than ever. Purchase diapers and have them delivered to the bank via Amazon, or consider making a monetary donation to the fund. Diaper donations can also be dropped off to JLNO Headquarters (4319 Carondelet St.) on Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Volunteer

Second Harvest

Second Harvest is looking for volunteers to help sort, package, and distribute the donated items. As the need grows for food, so too does the need for volunteers. Opportunities exist across the New Orleans area as well as at their Elmwood warehouse (700 Edwards Ave.).

United Way and Hands on New Orleans

United Way of Southeastern Louisiana and Hands on New Orleans have partnered to create the city’s leading volunteer center during the coronavirus pandemic. Volunteer needs include meal delivery drivers and working in a garden. All volunteers follow critical health and safety protocols to maintain safety.

GNO Caring Collective

The GNO Caring Collective was formed in 2020 as response to the COVID-19 pandemic. They are working to provide groceries, cleaning supplies, and prescription pickup and delivery to anyone who needs it. They have strict safety protocols and practice no-contact deliveries. They also offer laundry and rides to appointments. They are currently looking for more volunteers, especially those who speak Spanish.  

For more on how to donate and volunteer, see ready.nola.gov.