Charitable agencies are looking to help as Alabamians lose income due to the coronavirus pandemic. The United Way is creating a community fund to help those in need.
Drew Langloh is the President and CEO of the United Way of Central Alabama. He says there is a resource people can use to get in touch with others who can help.
“United Way runs the 211 info and referral center,” he says. “It is a three digit number you can dial anywhere in the state and get a live operator who can help connect you with the resources you’re looking for. We’ve had over 3000 calls. Number one call was around food assistance, utility assistance, rent assistance.”
Langloh says those looking to help can also dial 2-1-1 and talk to the operator. They will take your information to refer callers.
Meantime, the Red Cross is still looking for blood donations to fill the need due to many drives being canceled.
Spokeswoman Annette Roland says, “We’re asking everyone to take the time to give blood. Encourage your friends, your neighbors, and other businesses to give blood as we face this severe blood shortage due to an unprecedented number of blood drive cancellations.”
Red Cross facilities are taking precautions to protect those who come in to donate and their workers.