Our world right now is filled with fear and desperation. People have lost their jobs,
homes, and even members of their family. Helping someone in need in a time like this is really
important and can change someone’s life.

One way to help the community is to stay calm! This virus is not something to joke
about, however, it is important to remain rational and calm in these trying times (i’m talking to
you, toilet paper hoarders). The fear and uncertainty that panic buying causes in our
community is tremendous, and that extra package of pasta is not worth the negative effects.
Another way to help your community is to donate anything you can to local food banks,
homeless shelters, hospitals, and more. These public centers are struggling to stay afloat with
the current situation of panic and terror among the people. Donating any canned or food with a
longer expiration date would be greatly appreciated. Some local food banks include:
Montgomery County Food Bank (936-271-8800), TLC Food Pantry (936-856-8317), Heights
Interfaith Ministries Food Pantry (713-861-6155), and more. Make sure you call in before
making the trip to donate just to make sure they are open or accepting donations at this time.

A third way to help is to offer help to at-risk neighbors or others in your community. To
those who are at risk, the act of going to the store or filling a prescription can be extremely
difficult since they cannot leave their house. Calling them or even leaving a note on their door
(non-contact) with your phone number just to tell them that you can pick up anything they
need can mean a lot to them.

While the concern of your own family is important, helping your community out at this
time can change lives.