OFFERING SUPPORT IN THE TIME OF COVID-19

We are living in an unprecedented time in our lives. COVID-19 is affecting each one of us in a myriad of ways.

Today’s blog post suggests ways that we can support each other.  I offer particular support if you are taking this time to do a home-based organizing or down-sizing project especially if it can support your community.  

As we attempt to “plank the curve” of transmission, the impact on households is across the spectrum.

Some of us are reeling with the impact of layoffs, children being home-schooled, and isolation from loved ones in hospitals, care homes and across the country or out-of-the country.

Others are working long hours in front-line jobs:  cleaning and medical jobs, or grocery stores and pharmacies, or as soon to be laid off airlines employees ~  to name just a few! 

I invite any one of us who has the financial or emotional resources to consider how we can support each other and create community in new ways.

Could this be cooking for a struggling or exhausted family or isolated senior?  Acting as driver and delivery person for a neighbourhood small town grocery store or pharmacy? Phoning at least three people a day who may need reassurance that this time will pass ~  although we don’t know when. 

Others of you have emailed or phoned that you are at home attempting to find a ’new normal’. 
You are facing the reality that this Spring is the gift of time you have been wanting for years. 
It is finally time to clear out the basement or garage or attic. 

If that last comment speaks to you, I invite you FIRST of all to consider what you have in your surroundings that could be a real gift to someone else right now. 

What might that be?  

Food in a well-stocked freezer or pantry, or supplies on your bathroom shelves?  

Craft supplies or books that could be used by a home-schooled family or an isolated adult?  

Greeting cards that could be sent to care-home residents?

Could your community set up a give-away take-away table on your street?  

Consider how those items might be appropriately sanitized as they find new homes. How might you provide online support on your Community Events Facebook page or set up a ‘care-mongering’ site. Click here for more info.

During this past week, my work life has shifted to being at home. My professional work includes offering support to people who are down-sizing or right-sizing or estate-organizing.  I will be the first to acknowledge that all our priorities are shifting at this time. I am committed to helping find new ways to create community in whatever way I am able right now. 

I am fortunate to have a phone, a computer, and a wireless connection. 

I offer the possibility of a one-hour consult (no charge) to help you in a process of assessing what you might have in your home or garage to help others. OR to tackle long-awaited downsizing tasks in your home that can help you creatively and constructively stay emotionally healthy. Perhaps it’s time to engage less with TV and social media and clean out a cupboard?

Maybe you don’t know where to start? Perhaps you have been cleaning the garage for two days and just need some encouragement? Or have items to give away but are not sure how to do it in this time of social — or physical — distancing. 

If you are interested, scroll to the bottom of this blog post to see how to reach me.
I would be glad to talk.

In the meanwhile, Stay Calm and Carry On Creating Community…..at a physical distance.