It’s already been a year since the pandemic upended our lives and changed a lot of things. One thing that hasn’t changed, though, is the tireless commitment and selfless dedication of healthcare workers who are still fighting the good fight against COVID-19 to keep us all safe.
They are real-deal modern-day heroes that should be thanked endlessly. These people put their lives on the line daily knowing well that each and every time they report for duty they are exposed to the dreaded virus.
In honor of their selflessness and sacrifices, here are some ways that we can extend our appreciation to them:
1. Acknowledge them and give them shout outs on social media
With everybody spending too much time on social media nowadays, giving your healthcare worker pals a shoutout just for being such awesome people during this time can be a huge morale booster and motivator for them.
2. Pay for their parking or meal
Everyone’s struggling financially these days, including healthcare workers so doing something nice for them like paying for their parking fees or buying them a meal can help brighten up their day and make them feel appreciated.
3. Help address supplies shortage
Since the pandemic started, a lot of people started hoarding alcohol, hand sanitizers, masks, TPs, and other similar essential items. While folks have already refrained from doing so, some areas are still experiencing shortages in supplies. Donating supplies to them can help them perform their tasks better and make things easier for them.
Some business owners pivoted their establishments to help fill in the need for supplies. Businesses such as screen printing shops have started manufacturing masks, gloves, and other PPEs. Breweries were used to produce alcohol and hand sanitizers. Things like these can help alleviate the situation and make their jobs easier.
4. Stop taking PPEs, hand sanitizers, and TP from hospitals
People like taking stuff from hospitals such as hand sanitizers and TPs thinking that there’s an overabundance in their supply. Considering the present health crisis, we would do our frontline healthcare workers a great service by refraining from bringing these items with us as these can be used for those who really need them.
5. Have food delivered to them at work
You don’t need to be physically present to be a blessing to frontline healthcare workers. You can go online or make a phone call to have food delivered to them.
6. Or cook meals for them
If you prefer to give it a more personal touch, you can prepare and cook meals for them and bring them over to the hospital or health center. The thought of people going out of their way just to express gratitude for the work they do is heartwarming for healthcare practitioners.
7. Start a GoFundMe account for them or donate to an existing one
Just because their work never ended doesn’t mean that they are financially secure. A lot of them are struggling financially, too. And one of the ways that we can give back to them is to help them out monetarily.
Times may be tough but some people are willing to give back to them for their bravery and courage. Setting up a GoFundMe account for them can help ease their financial burdens through other people’s generosity.
8. Give them some money
If you have some cash to spare, you can place it in an envelope and hand it to a nurse or hospital staff. The amount doesn’t have to be big to be appreciated. At this point, every penny counts.
9. Organize a fundraiser for a hospital
Another creative way to make their jobs easier is to get the community together and do a fundraiser for your local health center or hospital. The money you raise can be used for the acquisition of medical supplies or to help finance some of their needs.
10. Stay healthy and stay home
Perhaps the best thing we can do for all of those who are selflessly and sacrificially fighting COVID on our behalf is to stay healthy and stay indoors. The work they have on their hands is already overwhelming as it is. We don’t need to add on to their problems and concerns. So do your best to stay at home and only go out when it is absolutely necessary.
If you know a doctor or nurse or any medical professional, give them the thanks they deserve. If you are a frontline healthcare worker, we cannot thank you enough for all you do. Hats off to you.
