Volunteer during COVID-19

COVID-19: How You Can Help

Visit Washington state Coronavirus Response for the latest COVID-19 response updates

During this time, we understand individuals who are not suffering from the coronavirus may want to help. Washingtonians should heed all state, local and health officials’ guidance regarding COVID-19. Serve Washington encourages individuals to explore different ways to volunteer and here you will find ways you can help. Please review our guidelines and contact the organization prior to any volunteer activity.   

Serve Washington: Guidelines for Volunteers and Volunteer Organizations During COVID-19

Join the Washington Mask Challenge

Make cloth masks for organizations in need throughout Washington State, such as nursing homes, homeless shelters, food banks, and more. These organizations regularly work with at-risk populations; however, they are not requesting N95 or other manufactured masks for themselves, because those masks are reserved for front-line healthcare providers. 

To participate in the Washington Mask Challenge, please visit www.WAMaskChallenge.org. 

Register as an Emergency Health Volunteer

Licensed health care, public health and support professionals who want to volunteer in response to federal, state or local emergencies can register at WAServ.org.

Donate to a Shelter or Food Bank

During this time organizations are running low on food items, help them stay well stocked for those in need. Donate to the Hunger Relief Fund for Washington.

Volunteer at a Food Bank

Food banks are in great need of volunteers to help and sort food. They are taking precautions to prioritize volunteer safety. Visit the following organizations to connect with a food bank in your area. 

• Northwest Harvest (Statewide)
• Second Harvest (Eastern Washington)
• Food Lifeline (Western Washington)

Or visit this Google Map assembled by Food Lifeline in cooperation with Northwest Harvest and Second Harvest. It includes information for those interested in volunteering as well as in need of food, provides search options filtered by service, and is refreshed daily. 

Support Nonprofits

Nonprofits of all types — especially those serving vulnerable communities — need your help. Donate to nonprofits you love, that are helping people in need, that your friends recommend to you, or to those are addressing systemic inequities and disparities. You can also consider giving to regional funds through Philanthropy Northwest - Response to COVID-19 Outbreak. 

Wellness Checks

Check on older neighbors with a call, text, or talk through the door.

Donate Blood

Blood donations have decreased dramatically. Healthy, eligible donors are urged to come out and give to ensure there is lifesaving supply on the shelves for those who need it most. Visit Bloodworks NW in the Puget Sound region or American Red Cross Blood Services.

Additional Resources

Serve Washington: Calling All Washingtonians COVID-19 Flyer

CNCS: Ten Ways to Safely Help Your Community During COVID-19

Washington Nonprofits: Cornoavirus Response Resources for Nonprofits

501 Commons: COVID-19 and Economic Change - Resources for Nonprofits