Help wanted: First Lady Frances Wolf says volunteerism is ‘essential’ in COVID-19 fight

Despite Gov. Tom Wolf’s statewide stay-at-home order, many organizations across the commonwealth are in need of volunteers to perform their essential services such as food distribution.

On Tuesday, First Lady Frances Wolf said that volunteering with these organizations was a great way to help local communities and get out of the house, provided the proper safety precautions are taken. 

Those precautions include: 

• Wearing a mask when you leave your home
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
• Cough and sneeze into your elbow
• Keep 6 feet away from others
• Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer
• Self-screen for COVID-19 symptoms

“Although many of the state’s operations have slowed down dramatically, we still desperately need volunteers to deliver life-sustaining services to our fellow citizens,” Wolf said in a statement.

To find volunteer opportunities, Wolf  recommended reaching out to local organizations directly, or visiting PA211 or ServPa to connect with agencies and inquire about their needs. These opportunities include county aging offices and food banks.

“Churches, fitness communities, civic organizations, individuals and families, all are critical partners in volunteer efforts to help all Pennsylvanians beat this pandemic,” Pennsylvania Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster Board member Julie Menzo said in a statement. “Please reach out to your local helping agencies today to see how you can get involved. Remote and in-person opportunities are available.”