Here are some of mutual aid and information dispersion efforts going on in West Philly to help out folks in need during these trying times. People will need everything from food and basic supplies to ideas about educating or entertaining children to caring for elderly folks.

Now is the time to step up if you are able. 

Neighbor Support Network – West Philly Facebook Group

From the “About” page:

(Creating infrastructure just in case…Ideally we won’t need this group.) The West Philly Neighbor Support Network will be a focused place for residents to coordinate practical assistance for each other, especially neighbors in need, during potential COVID-19 quarantines, either self-imposed or otherwise. Of special concern will be elderly or disabled neighbors, neighbors with young children and others who face challenging logistics. This will NOT be a place for news or discussion, especially not rumors.”

City Councilwoman’s Jamie Gauthier’s services spreadsheet

This is a handy list that includes updates to a variety of city services, including food access, as well as open/close status for a bunch of city agencies and institutions.

Neighbors Helping Neighbors: Philly Mutual Aid for folks Affected by COVID-19

Some community organizers are creating a network for mutual aid. Includes a form to provide aid – transportation, grocery shopping, temporary housing, board games etc. – and to seek aid.

“The important disclaimer: We are simply neighbors helping neighbors. The aid provided comes from community support and solidarity thus we cannot guarantee to meet each request but we will be trying our best to do so. We are not funded, we are not a government or medical agency, we are simply neighbors connecting neighbors to neighbors who can help (and we happen to be organizers).”

Sign-up for Philadelphia Medical Reserve Corps

The Philadelphia MRC needs people with a variety of skill sets, such as:

• Licensed, certified, or retired health professionals including physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, nurses, pharmacists, behavioral health providers, EMTs, paramedics, dentists, veterinarians, and respiratory care therapists.
• Medical, nursing, pharmacy, public health, and other allied health professional students.
• Non-medical personnel, such as interpreters, chaplains, and administrative professionals.