In just a few weeks, much about our world changed quickly. But something that didn’t change: Idaho’s generous spirit.

I’ve been flooded with questions from many of you asking what you can do.

Today, BoiseDev launches Do Something Good. This list of resources gives you actionable ideas on how you can help keep our community strong. While many people’s mobility is limited due to public health guidance, this list is constructed with an eye toward how you can help without coming into contact with other folks. Thanks to the Idaho Nonprofit Center for getting us started with ideas.

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Give blood: This one does require you to venture into public if you are able, but the need here is great. The American Red Cross says it currently faces a severe shortage of blood due to cancellations related to COVID-19. If you are healthy, the Red Cross can take your blood donation and has precautions in place. Learn more here.

Stock the Food Bank: Every dollar you donate to the Idaho Foodbank allows the organization to provide five meals. If you could spare $25, that’s 125 meals. The Foodbank says the pandemic is causing the strain to be even greater on those in need. Learn more here.

Support the El-Ada Community Action Partnership: You can drop off food, donations and household items at El-Ada’s two office locations – 2250 S. Vista in Boise or 701 E ,44th St in Garden City.

Backpack Lunch: This new app helps connect families in need with those who can help. Learn more here.

COVID-19 Response & Recovery Fund: The Idaho Community Foundation, United Way of Treasure Valley and the Idaho Nonprofit Center teamed to start a fund that will provide support to “trusted organizations that provide support and services to low-income, vulnerable people and families.” Learn more here.

Boise Schools Foundation emergency fund: The Boise Schools Foundation is working to help support some of the most vulnerable students in the district. Donations go to aid students and their families. Details here.

Buy Girl Scout Cookies, help healthcare workers. Details here.

NEW! Donate medical supplies: The United Way of Treasure Valley, in concert with local hospitals, will now accept new, unopened medical supplies. Details available here.

School food pantries: With the sudden shutdown of schools, a coalition of organizations is working to make sure kids and families still get a nutritious lunch. The United Way has a list of groups working on this effort.

Become a virtual volunteer: The United Way pulled together a list of ways you can volunteer without leaving your home (and a few other ideas). Learn more here.

NEW! Help support our animals: The Idaho Humane Society has a number of ways you can help – including adoption of course, as well as fostering an animal or donations of pet food. You can also make a donation. Learn more here.

Support our local economy: BoiseDev has a list of local restaurants and other local businesses that you can support through low- or no-contact means.

Best of all: Wash your hands. Keep your social distance. Call someone whose day you could brighten.

Submit a way to Do Something Good

If you represent an agency working to help the community, please submit information below and we’ll update this list periodically.