The threat from the spread of the coronavirus is serious; when social distancing is not exercised, the number of people who are infected rises exponentially. Based on a report from China, 16 per cent of those who get the coronavirus become seriously ill. Beyond the direct effect of the pandemic, there are second and third order effects felt in communities. Economically, many people are facing lay-offs, and small businesses are at risk of bankruptcy. Beyond the physical health risk from exposure to covid-19, the anxiety and sense of isolation that people can get from quarantine also can pose mental health issues. Public programs, like public schools or libraries, are drastically changing how they operate in order to meet the needs of the people dependent on them. There are few parts of society not affected by the virus.
On March 5, Governor Larry Hogan declared a State of Emergency to consolidate state resources to combat COVID-19. Within a week of his announcement, communities in the DMV region, including Prince George’s County and Greenbelt, started building a network of mutual aid groups. These volunteers believe a problem as multi-faceted as the coronavirus and its effects require a solution just as multi-faceted.
Mutual aid programs like Greenbelt’s are helping by sharing information: information on ways to limit the spread of covid-19, on existing relief efforts and on individual needs and offers of support. Knowing what works to disinfect, what personal protective equipment is recommended and the best ways to exercise social distancing helps to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Sharing knowledge of relief efforts like the pop-up food pantries, public school meal programs and the Small Business Administration’s loans also makes those programs more effective. This also works by connecting people looking for help with others looking to help. People with limited mobility or who are quarantined can get help from others willing to deliver groceries, and for those feeling alone, people offering video-chats can show how socially distant doesn’t mean socially absent.
The Greenbelt Mutual Aid Group is looking to reach as many people as possible. While the link to the main website – tinyurl.com/greenbeltmutualaid – has been shared on social media, there are many people in Greenbelt who aren’t there: flyers, public access television channel announcements (maybe even news articles) are being considered to spread the word further. While many people have come forward to provide help, the group also is looking to specifically reach out to people in need in order to effect change.
While the spread of the virus poses a serious threat to the health of our community, local support systems like Greenbelt’s Mutual Aid Group look to provide a remedy.
Daniel M Thies is a volunteer for the Greenbelt Mutual Aid Group.
The New Deal Cafe hosts a virtual St. Patrick’s Day happy hour on Zoom.
