Alberta in need of new volunteers during coronavirus pandemic

Apr 23 2020, 4:09 pm

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has kept Albertans indoors for more than a month now, and if you’ve been feeling like you just want to do something, anything, to help during this crisis, you’re definitely not alone.

Those with the capacity to do so can sign up to volunteer during the coronavirus pandemic, and the Province of Alberta just made it even easier to connect with volunteer opportunities.

Premier Jason Kenney announced the Alberta Cares Connector at a press conference on Wednesday, stating that the online tool will direct would-be volunteers to one of the province’s 26,400 non-profit organizations.

“Volunteerism is the Alberta way. I continue to be inspired by many acts of Albertan generosity and compassion,” said Kenney in a release from the province.

“From the Sikh community providing meals for truckers keeping our supply lines open, to a Calgary woman in her time of mourning sewing masks for her community, to kids leaving care packages on their elderly neighbours’ doorsteps – the examples of generosity and selflessness are endless. The Alberta Cares Connector will build off this community solidarity and ensure that those who can help will make the biggest impact during this time when support is acutely needed.”

The release also noted that, even before coronavirus, each year saw over 1.6 million Albertans provide over 262 million hours of volunteering — a value of $5.6 billion, and the highest rates in the country.

“Albertans are proud to have the highest volunteer rates across Canada, and we take action in countless ways to meet the needs of our communities and neighbours,” said Minister of Culture, Multiculturalism, and Status of Women, Leela Sharan Aheer, in the release.

“During this unprecedented crisis, Albertans understand that the need for volunteerism and social support is urgent. And, once again, they have demonstrated their commitment to their neighbours and communities through selfless acts of service.”

Those looking for service opportunities can head over to the Alberta Cares Connector website, punch in the causes and activities they are interested in, and the site will generate a suggestion on where they can help out.

The Alberta release also provided a few examples of volunteer work that can have a huge impact during the pandemic:

  • Volunteering at food banks.
  • Sewing masks or scrub bags for front-line health-care workers.
  • Providing meals for essential service workers, like truckers.
  • Picking up groceries for those unable to leave their homes.
  • Packing and delivering essential needs for vulnerable Albertans.
  • Donating blood through myaccount.blood.ca.
  • Donating items to shelters in need.
  • Reaching out to seniors through positive messages or phone calls.

Chandler WalterChandler Walter

+ News
+ Coronavirus
ADVERTISEMENT