How to Help

A great antidote for feeling helpless is to try to help others. Some ideas for any age to give to our community in crisis. Please let us know other suggestions.

Make Cards

Make cheerful cards for isolated seniors. Use big print (not cursive) so the card is east to read.

See the websites of DOROT and Meals on Wheels NYC for greeting card donation guidelines, check with local nursing homes or join the local Caring By Card Nursing Home Project. Also send art and cards to loved ones near and far.

See our guide to arts & activities resources and museum websites for inspiration.

make greeting cards

Donate/Make Masks

Give any masks you have around to workers in undersupplied hospitals who really need them. If you have access to a sewing machine, follow this easy YouTube tutorial or instructions from JoAnn Fabrics and make masks to donate. Financial donations are also welcome. See this article for more information.

SAY THANK YOU

Reach out to medical personnel, first responders, grocery store employees and others bravely working through the crisis with a call, text, card, chocolate, hand cream, treats from a local business, or whatever else you can think of to show your gratitude and brighten their crazy challenging days.

Join neighbors to clap for these essential workers from your window (maybe with a homemade thank you sign) at 7 pm nightly when most healthcare workers are switching shifts.

See this amazing video for inspiration.

Consider sending take-out and treats from local restaurants to hospitals, a great way to also....

Support Local Businesses

Support the businesses that make NYC so amazing by purchasing gift cards, shopping online, or ordering takeout/delivery.

Stream a live class from NYC educators (the best) or order from these local gems:

The Craft Studio (UES & Tribeca)

Virtual 3 art class packs available for $72. Includes supplies delivered, shipped or picked up curbside and online step by step instructions.

Books Of Wonder (UWS & Gramercy)

This lovely bookstore is open for shipping and will put together personalized recommendations of books and puzzles.

PiccoliNY (Soho)

Shop for curated toys, books and iconic foodie I heart NY onesies and tees at this mom-owned Soho store. $5 flat rate shipping and 20% off through March 31st with code friendsandfam.

Dessert Goals Alumni (city wide)

May's Dessert Goals fest has sadly been postponed, but you can have your own at home by ordering macarons, edible cookie dough and more treats from local small businesses for pick-up, delivery or shipping nationwide.

Blue Hill at Stone Barns (West Village & Westchester)

Treat yourself to a meal from legendary Blue Hill at Stone Barns - at home -and support a worthy institution. Hot pot meals, bread baskets and more availble for pick-up at the Tarrytown farm or West Village restaurant.

Support Museums

Need a library/playroom refresh? Shop ths fantastic, expertly curated online shops of local museums for great toys, books and games and consider becoming a member of your faves - so many perks all year round (including store discounts).

See our guide to museum websites (with great activities) and shop at these links:

And be kind to yourself! See our suggestions for at-home entertainment & education and do some yoga or have a dance party as a family or whatever you need to find some peace.

We'll keep adding to this list and our other guides and enrichment; subscribe to our email list for updates and please share ideas for more service.