United Way of Central Iowa Organizes COVID-19 Relief Efforts in DSM
United Way of Central Iowa leads the fight for the health, education and financial stability of all in Greater Des Moines (DSM). By now, it’s clear COVID-19 is having a profound effect on all three. Our staff is working diligently to provide assistance to people in our community who need it most.
Here’s how you can help with the efforts our organization is making in our community:
Share + Connect with 211
211 is a free, trusted, professionally curated information and human services referral service that helps Iowans get connected with the help they need 24/7/365. The Iowa Department of Public Health has asked 211 to use to act as the statewide hotline for COVID-19. Our operators are fielding more than 1,000 calls per day, and giving callers information they need to connect with the nonprofit agencies and resources available to support them during this time. Spread the word on social media about 211.
Make Healthy Choices — They Count!
United Way of Central Iowa has partnered with the Healthiest State Initiative to promote 5-2-1-0, an effort to help families make healthy choices around diet, exercise and screen time. 5-2-1-0 stands for:
- 5 servings of fruits and vegetables per day.
- 2 hours or less of screen time.
- 1 hour of physical activity.
- 0 sugary drinks and more water.
As kids and adults alike are practicing social distancing, it’s important to remember that Healthy Choices Count!
Donate to Provide Relief
The Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines and United Way of Central Iowa activated the Disaster Recovery Fund (DRF) on Monday, March 16. The DRF supports nonprofits focused on serving disproportionately affected communities by addressing economic needs and the health impact on vulnerable populations caused by the COVID-19 related closures and other impacts of the outbreak. Consider donating to the DRF or directly to United Way of Central Iowa.
Volunteer While Staying Healthy
United Way of Central Iowa's Get Connected database offers hundreds of volunteer opportunities — including virtual volunteering — and donation drives for various supplies to meet the current community needs. Click here to search for opportunities, or to enter opportunities if you are a nonprofit organization.
The motto for United Way locations around the world is LIVE UNITED. We are up for the challenge that COVID-19 brings and will continue to fight for all those living in DSM.
Will you join us?
You can count on The Partnership to continue to share accurate and fact-based updates as well. See more on COVID-19 here.
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