Hoffman Highlights National Volunteer Month, Opportunities to Give Back to Community

BELLEVILLE, Ill. – During National Volunteer Month, state Rep. Jay Hoffman, D-Swansea, is calling on local residents to consider volunteering to help give back to the community during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

“Our state is currently facing an uphill battle as we continue to fight the COVID-19 crisis, so I encourage residents to considering giving back in whatever way they can to help support our community during these unprecedented times,” said Hoffman. “Every little bit counts, and there are many ways to help our neighbors in need while we fight to bend the curve, whether it be donations of your time, expertise, money or equipment.”

A list of available volunteer opportunities are available on the Serve Illinois Commission on Volunteerism and Community Service website at Serve.Illinois.gov, including community-based opportunities such as meal delivery and telephone wellness checks for local seniors through AgeSmart Community Resources. Additionally, the American Red Cross is asking healthy residents to consider donating blood as the country faces a severe blood shortage amid the cancellations of blood drives.

Hoffman is also asking residents and businesses to check their supplies for any new, unopened personal protective equipment (PPE) such as N-95 masks, gloves, goggles, hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes that can be donated to local fire departments, police departments or hospitals. Residents can email ppe.donations@illinois.gov with the type and quantities of the PPE they have along with their address to find the most convenient and efficient drop-off point.

“There are many safe ways to give back to our community from the safety and comfort of your own home while supporting the nurses, doctors and first responders that are working on the front lines to fight the COVID-19 crisis,” continued Hoffman. “Please also take this time to check in on your family and neighbors that are seniors or at-risk of getting sick, and I encourage residents to continue doing their part to help bend the curve by staying home as much as possible and following important hygiene guidelines.”