Many of us began this new year with high hopes and a reinvigorated sense of optimism full of new opportunities, desires to travel, and an exciting election ahead. However, three months into 2020 and I’m sure many of us are feeling down for the way in which the coronavirus (COVID-19) has dominated the media, stock markets, and nearly every thought and conversation these days. Some people may watch a Fox News segment or read a quick Buzzfeed article regarding the pandemic and not take this issue as seriously as they should. Yet the harsh reality we’re experiencing is that this issue is impacting everyone. Regardless of whether you’re sick, exposed with no symptoms, or stuck at home waiting for the worst to happen, we are all feeling the impact of the coronavirus pandemic; physically, mentally, economically, and emotionally. So during a time in which everything seems to be crashing and burning, there are two ways in which we can all go about this: panic and live like the world is ending tomorrow or live life cautiously and try to help our neighbors the best way we can. While many of us can feel a sense of comfort from inside our homes with mounds of Charmin toilet paper and boxes upon boxes of Barilla pasta, there’s equally a vast amount of people who are either homeless, elderly, or now out of work due to recent changes. As much as I wanted to write my next travel piece on my experience in the Holy Land or describe the vibrant old town that’s waiting to be discovered in Cartagena, I realized what would be a better use of my time. The following are links to different philanthropic causes both in Miami and nationally that can benefit those suffering right now as a result of the pandemic. While it may be easy for us to bury our heads in the sand in fear, there are countless mothers, fathers, and children who are nearly praying to make it through this ordeal. I urge anyone who reads this to consider contributing whatever you can to any of these organizations or to those closer to home. Stay safe everyone and just remember, we’re in this together!
Greater Chicago Food Depository (Chicago):
Global Empowerment Mission - B Strong (National):
Purchase A Gift Card or Order Online at Your Favorite Local Businesses. Some of mine include:
Books & Books (Miami)
Versailles (Miami)
Frankie’s Pizza (Miami)
Bombay Darbar (Miami)
Ms. Cheezious (Miami)
Citymeals on Wheels (New York City):
Feeding South Florida (Florida):
Unicef USA (National):
Miami Diaper Bank (Miami):
Stay Safe. Remain Positive. Have Hope.
-Nico Valdsé, Edge of Travel
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