Capital Region Cares
STICKING TOGETHER
DURING A CRISIS
T
he economic shutdown caused by the COVID-19 pandemic has created more need in our
community for the services of nonprofit organizations than ever before. Stress levels are
high, and finances, or the prospect of a meal, are low for many who have lost their jobs. In
some cases, the distance between our community needs and the ability of nonprofits to help
meet them has never been greater.
Sacramento’s blood centers lost up to 500 donors in recent weeks due to concerns over
the coronavirus. The Sacramento Food Bank, which normally serves 150,000 people a month
through more than 200 agencies, reports that demand for meals has exploded as an increas-
ing number of people are staying home. At the same time, the center has seen a 70 percent
drop in volunteers to deliver food, many of them vulnerable because of their age or underly-
ing health conditions. Reserves from the National Guard have taken up the slack, packaging
and delivering food.
A coalition of private industries, foundations and labor organizations, led by the City
of Sacramento, has also taken steps to fill the gap. Within a week, Donate 4 Sacramento
collected donations or pledges from 541 donors and distributed more than $250,000 to
organizations that help families with rent, child care and other everyday needs; nonprofits
designated by donors; programs for the homeless; and to support small businesses. The goal
is to raise $3 million for the cause.
That generosity is a reminder to nonprofits that although the Capital Region’s economy is
struggling, it is not completely shut down. People working in essential industries — including
health care, construction, auto repair, food and agriculture, and government — are still gen-
erating income.
With so many working from home, it’s an opportune time for nonprofits to reach donors
or tell their story to prospective donors through digital formats. If you can donate $5 or a pint
of blood, make a wellness check on a neighbor or deliver meals, it’s a good time to remember
in this time of crisis that no donation is too small to make a difference. If you’re looking for
ideas, visit the California Volunteers website at serve.ca.gov.
PLATINUM SPONSORS
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