Here’s what I hate about the great unknown: you just don’t know what’s gonna happen.

I’m here all week. Drive safely everyone. Oh wait. We’re at home aren’t we?

Here’s what I do know. There are some really good people out there who find ways to mobilize kindness in times of crisis. The outpouring of volunteerism, kindness and selfless fundraising locally and nationally has been moving and inspiring.

Here are 2 worthy causes in need of donations or perhaps you can do something similar in your neck of the woods:

Chicago:

Jennifer Edibles, Inc. (Evanston) a local restaurant in my town that “has been recognized for its outstanding Soul food cuisine” had a goal to make and give away meals to seniors since some had lost access to food during the pandemic. William Eason, Jennifer’s brother told me, “Jennifer and I decided we’re gonna feed 5 seniors. First 5 that text in the morning after 9a we’re gonna send them dinners.” The more people heard about what they were doing the more people texted and volunteered to help. The number of meals grew to 15. They are currently at 38 meals with 6 volunteer drivers. 

“It will be going on for the duration.” Eason said. The restaurant has shut down other operations to focus on providing meals for those whose resources have been cut. William said, “It shouldn’t take a pandemic for people to actually start caring abut folks. I can’t unsee what I’ve seen. I can’t unhear what I’ve heard.” He shared that “one woman asked if we could “make it a big plate” At first I thought she was being greedy.” Turns out, “she just wanted to make sure she had something to eat in the morning. ” You can call the restaurant at (224) 717-1835 and purchase meals to be donated. They are in the process of setting up a Go Fund Me page as well. 

National:

Stars In The House This twice daily entertainment machine  is the brain child of Sirius XM Broadway host Seth Rudetsky and his husband; producer James Wesley. The spouses host live “mini shows and sassy chats”  with Broadway stars from the comfort of their own homes via video conference. For this musical theater geek and others all over the world these concerts have been like Christmas morning everyday. The series also features an expert Dr. Jonathan D. LaPook who takes questions, quells fears and listens along like a true fan. All donations go to The Actors Fund “a national human services organization that fosters stability and resiliency, and provides a safety net for performing arts and entertainment professionals…” So many artists from Broadway to regional theatre, folx behind and in front of the camera, even wedding singers have lost employment for the foreseeable future. This fund supplies direct support for rent, medications and other immediate needs. Go too www.starsinthehouse.com to donate and watch the shows on the website or YouTube.

This is one of my favorites with the original Glinda from Wicked Kristin Chenoweth:

Is there an organization you have been supporting during this time? A do gooder you’d like to spotlight? Share in the comments below.

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