COVID-19: How Can I Help? What Can I Do?

In times of crisis & anxiety - - to reach out and give love - is one of the best ways to reduce anxiety and receive love in return.

Barry Porter, CEO American Red Cross (ARC), Eastern Region of North Carolina presents the present status and needs for blood, professional volunteers and 0+ and 0- blood.

Mr. Porter states that although this essential organization (that has served Americans in every type of crisis since 1881) is there along side first responders and federal officials, this agency continues to require donations to sustain its ability to help. He stated that the ARC needs public help, donations and support now more than ever.

Mr. Porter detailed the present response the American Red Cross in present crisis situations such as home fires and health assistance, counseling... The ARC is on the ground and doing everything they normally do, despite its monetary shortfalls during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Donations from the public are greatly appreciated and will go to help all those who are in desperate need.

Dr. Ernie Mills, CEO & Founder of The Durham Rescue Mission (DRM) & Homeless Shelter presented that his buildings are currently providing 24 hour shelter to the homeless yet remain 100% COVID-19 Negative! Tests are performed on every individual showing symptoms. All have been negative.

This organization is run without ANY state or federal funding and relies on the donations of money, assistance, food and goods to its stores. The DRM stores have been closed during this pandemic, and their shelters have not received food donations.

Their budgets have been stretched to their farthest limit, but they remain open, providing drug recovery treatment, care, food, and social services, counseling and educational time (resume & life skills) still.  

Dr. Mills emphasized the need for food and monetary donations, as well as regular donations for their stores, as they work to strategically prepare for a clean, safe and healthy atmospheres in their stores and invite all in the future. His tireless and diligent work to serve the homeless population and those at the greatest need in these and many other communities continues. He further is working to continue to assist other communities in the program he pioneered for homelessness recovery.