U-M asks for public’s help: Fight COVID-19 by supporting health care workers, researchers & people in need

Three weeks ago, the University of Michigan put out its first call for community help during the COVID-19 pandemic. The response was nothing short of amazing, with thousands of individuals, families, businesses and organizations stepping forward.

Today, that call goes out again, with more ways community members can help health care teams at Michigan Medicine stay safe and well, help U-M researchers find answers to urgent questions about coronavirus and its effects, and help community organizations serve the most vulnerable.

Some of those ways involve giving money or supplies, for those with the means to do so. Others involve simply giving time or sharing a social media post. But all of them can make a big difference during unprecedented times.

Ways to help:

• Give money to support Michigan Medicine’s COVID-19 response
• Give protective gear for Michigan Medicine front-line staff and patients
• Give non-perishable food to Food Gatherers to share with the community
• Give meals, or money to buy meals, to feed front-line Michigan Medicine staff
• Give time by running or walking a virtual 5K race to raise money for U-M, or sharing the call for donations
• Give blood to sustain a steady supply for patients at U-M and beyond. People who have recovered from COVID-19 can give blood plasma for potential use in current COVID-19 patients.
• Give thanks to health care workers and researchers by posting wishes on social media using #HailtotheFrontLine, or submitting them online
• Give cheer to home-bound older adults by creating cards or drawings to be delivered by the Meals on Wheels programs led by Michigan Medicine

For links to full lists of accepted items, online financial giving, contact information and more, visit: http://victors.us/covid-19

“Our incredible supporters have shown their true giving spirit in recent weeks, helping us meet the needs of our care teams, and patients and families across our communities,” says Tony Denton, senior vice president and chief operating officer of U-M Health System-Michigan Medicine. “We are so grateful for the outpouring of compassion and support which has been so inspiring, but not surprising. Thanks to all who have responded to our call, and those who intend to help us with their volunteer spirit and be part of our team in weeks to come.”