Conroy Asks Neighbors to Give Back During Coronavirus Outbreak

VILLA PARK, Ill. – State Rep. Deb Conroy, D-Villa Park, is encouraging healthy residents to safely give back to the community during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Whether it’s your time, expertise, money, or equipment, I urge all of my neighbors to give whatever they can to support our community and those on the frontlines of this unprecedented crisis,” said Conroy. “There are ways for all of us to give back in a way that is comfortable and safe for each of us, especially as we take the social distancing precautions necessary to flatten the curve.”

A list of some 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-packing at the Northern Illinois Food Bank and ways residents can contribute to COVID-19 efforts from home. The American Red Cross is asking healthy residents to consider donating blood as the country faces a severe blood shortage amid the cancelations of large-scale blood drives. Local residents are also encouraged to visit the Giving DuPage website at GivingDuPage.org to find organizations serving DuPage County residents in need.

Additionally, residents and businesses are asked 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 may 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.

“Health care workers, paramedics, and first responders are literally on the frontlines fighting this pandemic, and it is imperative that they have the proper equipment to keep themselves and their families safe as they selflessly serve our community every single day,” continued Conroy. “Our community has always risen to the occasion during times of crisis and I am so proud of my neighbors for checking in on their loved ones, donating blood, and volunteering their time with organizations that are working overtime to make sure our neighbors are safe and healthy. There are safe ways for us to observe safe social distancing and practice the recommended hygiene guidelines while still helping our neighbors in need.”