If you’re anything like me, these past couple weeks inside sheltering-in-place have been one giant mind game. In the span of a few hours, I can feel grateful, anxious, sad, worried, and, most often, helpless when the weight of the impact of Covid-19 becomes crushing. Workers are losing their jobs, wondering how they’ll make rent or pay the bills. Businesses are suffering, and many will never return. People are sick, have loved ones who are sick, or are worried about getting sick themselves.
Every part of life in the Bay Area has changed in such a short time, and there’s no doubt the crisis will have lasting impacts in the months and years to come. Even though I know I’m doing my part by staying inside, it’s hard to sit idly by on my couch and not know what to do.
That’s why I’ve worked with writers for The Bold Italic to publish countless stories rounding up specific, concrete ways we Bay Area citizens can give back to our communities right now. The good news is, there is plenty we can do. Even though we can’t control much right now, we can contribute to the good.
The Bay Area is strong, and we’ve already seen so many people step up. If you’re looking to do more, please check out the series of stories below and share them.
If you have a tip for us, please email info@thebolditalic.com.
You can support local businesses from your home. Here are some shops with online stores to browse and buy from.
Looking to contribute funds to organizations on the front lines? Or, if you’re healthy and able, are you willing to volunteer? Read this.
Musicians, actors, artists, and makers are some of the hardest hit right now. Here’s how you can support them.
When you’re out grocery shopping, why not shop local?
Local gyms and fitness studios have had to close. Want to stay fit and support a local business? Here are virtual classes to consider.
Neighborhoods are organizing. Are you part of your city’s mutual aid network? Do you want to start a neighborhood pod? Read this.
We all gotta eat, and the Bay Area restaurant industry is in a free fall. Some ideas for takeout tonight.
The Bold Italic is a not-for-profit media organization, and we publish first-person perspectives about San Francisco and the Bay Area. We operate under a fiscal sponsorship of a 501(c)(3).
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