The charities that serve Tacoma’s needs aren’t shutting down, just shifting the ways they help.
Over the Rainbow: Finding New Ways to Connect
It was an email from the Rainbow Center that reminded us that the important work of helping our neighbors is not confined to situations brought about by coronavirus/COVID-19. Within their correspondence, they suggested ways to help others in need.
Feeling like you want to help your community? Here are some things you can do:
- Check-in on your friends.
- Help connect folks who feel isolated to Rainbow Center staff.
- Wash your hands frequently.
- Ensure that YOU are getting what you need to stay healthy.
That’s strong advice, and a reminder that resources remain available for LGBTQ+ individuals. The Rainbow Center is hosting video conference calls, phone meetings, and doing their best to keep connecting people with those resources.
It is also a reminder that the charities that served Tacoma prior to the outbreak are still there to help. They are shifting their normal means of operation, not disappearing.
Continuing to Celebrate Animals & Confront Cruelty
During the Stay Home, Stay Healthy order Tacoma Humane Society has limited operations. They are still re-uniting lost pets with their owners, of course. They are also open for adoption. There are 180 dogs, cats, and other animals available to the right home. If your current, and future, circumstances have room for a furry friend, Tacoma Humane can help fill that empty space.
Support and Sustenance for Neighbors in Need
The Tacoma Rescue Mission is even more challenged than they were a month ago. Their mission remains important as the homeless in and around Tacoma have more needs, and the population potentially grows.
Making Space for Tacoma’s Artists
Artists and emerging businesses supported by Spaceworks are in a financial bind. Spaceworks is working to amplify their working artists, even more than usual. We can all use the perspective and healing that great local art brings to the world.
Follow them on Facebook, Instagram, or sign up for their newsletter. These creators will help inspire us all while we move forward in uncertain times.
Reeling It In: Tacoma’s Best Movie Theater Adapts
Another way to pass the time at home is via The Grand Cinema’s virtual screening room. With nine new small or independent films available, they are keeping their mission alive, while the theater itself is closed. There are also ways to support their staff.
https://twitter.com/GrandCinema/status/1244741253511532544
Fast Lane Philanthropy: USL eCup Update
Tacoma Defiance midfielder-defender Josh Atencio is helping us support United Way of Pierce County by playing Rocket League in the USL eCUp. United Way of Pierce County and Greater Tacoma Community Foundation have a fund specifically for needed relief due to COVID-19. Their broader missions maintain importance too.
A Light in the Dark
Lighthouse for the Blind needed to shift their plans due to Governor Inslee’s Stay Home, Stay Healthy order. Like all of these non-profits and more, fundraisers have been cancelled. In this case, their retail operations at their locations in and around JBLM have also been impacted.
Where You Come In
With so many in need right now, there’s space for big actions and donated money. There’s also space for a phone call, a follow-on social media, or many other ways to check in with your friends and remind them that there are resources for those that need help. We’re all in this together, Tacoma.
Header image via Spaceworks Tacoma: Mural detail by Tiffanny Hammonds, part of the facade of Fab-5 and the 1120 Hilltop Coworking Space.
About Tacoma Defiance
Tacoma Defiance is the USL Championship affiliate of reigning MLS Cup Champion Seattle Sounders FC. You can follow The Future of Champions on Twitter (@TACDefiance), Facebook, and Instagram (@tacdefiance). We are #DefiantlyTacoma.
COVID-19 Information
More information on social distancing and how to prevent the spread of Covid-19 can be found at Tacoma-Pierce County Health. The most up-to-date information on how COVID-19 is affecting events at Cheney Stadium can be found here.
June 7, 2023