Family Education & Support Services is partnering with community partners to meet the basic needs of the families in our community. “The most vulnerable among us will be hit the hardest and take the longest to recover,” Regine A. Webster, vice president for the Center for Disaster Philanthropy. ” Remember there will be physical health, mental health and economic impacts of the pandemic long after the initial outbreak.”
The CDC say the most important actions individuals can take right now is to stop the spread of the virus by washing their hands correctly, practicing “social distancing,” and quarantining themselves if they are sick.
Beyond those measures, here are some other steps for directing resources where they’re needed in our community most.
How to help families in our community during the coronavirus pandemic
- Donate to Family Education & Support Service and other reputable nonprofits
- Volunteer with Meals on Wheels
- Support your local Food Bank
- Give Blood
- Donate Needed Supplies – Here is a list of needed supplies for families in Washington’s South Sound Region (updated 3/17/2020)
- Formula
- Diapers (all sizes)
- Baby wipes
- Disinfectant wipes
- Disinfectant spray
- Hand sanitizer
- Hand soap
- Laundry soap
- Toilet paper
- Hygiene items
- Pads and tampons
- Non-perishable food/snack items/protein bars
- Propane
- Dog and cat food
- Gift cards for gas
- Laundromat vouchers or quarters to do laundry
- Family Activities (indoor games, puzzles, coloring supplies, craft supplies)
Items can be dropped off Monday – Friday, 10 AM-4 PM at:
Family Education & Support Services’ Regional Resilience Center (Thurston County) – 6840 Capitol Blvd. SE; Bld. 3; Tumwater 98501
For more information please call our main office at (360)754-7629