We can all feel it. The collective anxiety, the uncertainty, and the frustration. Buried among all of these things, are stories of people and organizations making sacrifices and sharing kindnesses to serve their community in this time of crisis.
While we do our best to practice ‘social distancing,’ there are health care clinicians, allied health professionals, first responders, and public health officials working to care for those who are ill and keep the rest of us safe. There are also people keeping store shelves stocked, delivering our groceries and packages, and helping us maintain some sense of normalcy. There are the neighbors and nonprofits helping take care of those who are suddenly out of work, need food, or access to childcare.
We’ve seen these stories pop up on social media or through word of mouth, but we wanted to create a space to share these stories of character, community, and commitment. This is a chance to shine a light on the good, highlight kindness, and recognize how those among us are pulling together to help.
Please use the form linked below to share a story with us. VCHI will work to compile and curate your stories of teamwork, sacrifice, and caring so that we all have a place to look for something positive in the weeks and months to come.
In the meantime, here’s a few we found that made us smile.
Joining forces to feed the community
Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center, along with 8 other members of the Prince William Chamber of Commerce helped to raise $40,000 to be shared equally between two food banks – Northern Virginia Family Service (SERVE Campus) and Action in the Community Through Service (ACTS).
Organizations innovate and improvise to address PPE shortages
VCU Health, Virginia’s Community Health Centers, and UVA Health System implement ways to safely reuse critical PPE.
Virginia Colleges and Universities Step Up to Help
JMU, William & Mary, and the University of Richmond are each contributing to the COVID-19 response.
Hotel offering special rate for healthcare workers
Drury Hotel, near the VCHI office, is offering a special rate for healthcare workers needing temporary accommodations. Thanks to staff at the Virginia Community Healthcare Association for sharing this with our community.
Masks and PPE Donations for Health Care Workers
Businesses and private citizens are stepping up to donate and make PPE to healthcare workers.
Local bakers feed those in need
Local bakeries in different regions step up to help feed their communities.
Health care teams turn on a dime to change care delivery and serve patients
Primary care teams across Virginia quickly adapt their workflows to keep patients safe.
Peer-support resource for providers
Those on the front line of health care need support and connection now more than ever. PeerRxMed was created by Virginia physician, Dr. Mark Greenawald and is free for anyone to join.
Community Foundations, nonprofits across Virginia help those most impacted by COVID-19
Foundations and other community organizations across the Commonwealth jump into action to provide funding and services to the most vulnerable among us.