I am fortunate to be working during the virus shutdown. Swamped, stressed, and tired but so much better off than some. Relatives are fine too. Where to begin helping the community when help is needed everywhere?
Maybe start with the mom-and-pop businesses I frequent? The cafes, etc.? They should be eligible for loans, but will that be enough? Their employees could get unemployment insurance, but how much and when?
What about some favorite nonprofits, like museums and arts organizations? Can they get loans too? Or will they sink or swim on donations?
Maybe the food banks first?
I suddenly realize with embarrassing humility how little I know about the nuts and bolts of my community and what's needed to keep it running. I can't save it all but want to help as effectively as possible. It feels like ER triage.
Not talking zillions, just a few hundred $ here and there as able.