Coronavirus: Community initiatives to brighten the spirit of Tri-Citians and offer help

A new community initiative is under way to try to brighten the spirit of Tri-Citians.

“Covidgil” is a collaborative effort led by community members Ana Ruiz and Adam Avenir to create nightly show of support and togetherness during the coronavirus crisis.

They are encouraging people on Flatten the Curve Tri-Cities to take a few minutes every night at 7 p.m. to share art, shine lights through windows, play music or sing songs loud for many to hear.

The site, 7pm.community, says its an effort to thank those on the front lines such as health care providers, first responders, grocers and all essential workers.

They also want to show support for others struggling because of COVID-19 with unemployment, exhaustion, sickness, mental health or being immuno-compromised.

To see the initiative in English or Spanish, go to 7pm.community.

Order a Taco Tortoise shirt for charity

The Pasco Taco Crawl was called off this year after restaurants were ordered closed statewide to help curb the spread of the coronavirus.

But committee members still are working to help the Boys & Girls Clubs of Benton and Franklin Counties with sales of the official Taco Tortoise shirt.

Online orders must be placed ASAP for shirts available in unisex, ladies and youth sizes. All proceeds are going directly to the Boys & Girls Clubs, which is the annual Taco Crawl’s fundraising partner.

Donations also can be made direct to the organization at greatclubs.org/donate.

The Boys & Girls Clubs has remained open during the pandemic, providing emergency childcare to the kids of essential workers while also following social distancing guidelines.

It also has been providing food and other essential items to families in need.

“Thank you for all of your taco-tastic support during this crazy time, and we look forward to crawling with you all someday soon!” the committee said in an email.

Trios, Lourdes leaders ask to #ThankAHealthCareHero

Trios Health and Lourdes Health is encouraging the community to join the national social media effort #ThankAHealthCareHero.

“Not only are health care workers a cornerstone of our hospitals’ mission, they are an integral member of our community,” the news release said. “They are moms and dads. Brothers and sisters. Friends and neighbors.”

The release, written by Trios Health CEO John Solheim and Lourdes Health CEO Rob Monical, encourages the public to post a message of thanks on social media with the hastag #ThankAHealthCareHero.

“Let’s show our hometown heroes how much we appreciate their incredible and inspiring efforts to keep us safe.”

Foundation creates fund for struggling nonprofits

Nonprofit organizations in Benton and Franklin counties whose programs and services have been effected by the coronavirus outbreak are being supported by a new emergency fund.

The Three Rivers Community Foundation Board of Directors has created an emergency fund started with $50,000 from anonymous donations.

“I continue to be amazed and deeply moved by the level of generosity the Tri-Cities community is willing to be engaged in,” said Susan Taylor, the foundation’s vice chairperson.

Applications for grants will be accepted starting April 15 by qualified 501c3 organizations that have seen an increase in demand or changes to their programs.

The grants will be determined based on the amount of money raised in the fund, and will be available on a rolling basis as long as money is available.

Contributions can be made at www.3rcf.org or by mailing a check written out to 3RCF - Emergency Fund to Three Rivers Community Foundation, 1333 Columbia Park Trail Suite 310, Richland, WA 99352.

AAA offers 1st responders, health workers free service

Health care workers and first responders in Washington now have free roadside service.

AAA is now offering free service free service regardless of whether they already are AAA members.

“Our health care workers and first responders are risking everything for our community right now, said Kirk Nelson, AAA Washington president and CEO. “The last thing they need is to have to deal with car troubles.”

To request roadside assistance, individuals can call 800-AAA-HELP (222-4357) go to AAA.com or through the Auto Club app 24/7.

AAA roadside technicians have been trained in safe practice that prevent the spread of coronavirus including remaining 6 feet away, arranging alternative transportation for anyone who needs their vehicle towed and having the motorist remain in the vehicle when service is being provided if safe.

Money to help implement telehealth

Greater Columbia Accountable Community of Health has released $230,000 to contracted providers to implement telehealth.

GCACH recognized the importance of telehealth as an effective way to treat clients without risk to providers and as a way to address provider shortages.

Benton County providers received $46,400 and providers in Franklin County received $17,900.

The money will help purchase laptops, webcams, tablets, internet bandwidth, licensing fees and telehealth software.