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Neighbors Helping Neighbors
Written By: Mary Jane McCall | Issue: 2020/07 – July | Photograph By: Marjorie Christiansen Photography
Coming together in times of crisis is one of the things that makes Highlands such a special place to live. Never has this been more evident than during the recent and ongoing Covid-19 crisis.
The Highlands Chamber of Commerce has been instrumental in devising ways to help our community weather these unusual times. A suggestion was made to start a program of Neighbors Helping Neighbors and the chamber fully embraced the idea. They set up parameters for the program, made additions to their website, and launched an effort seeking volunteers to respond to their neighbor’s needs.
The response has been overwhelming with over 50 responders volunteering to help their neighbors in need. This program helps people who cannot leave their homes for health or safety concerns who just need a little extra help. The responders provide a myriad of services, including shopping, pickup and delivery of items from grocery stores, pharmacies, and mailing and delivering packages. Transportation can also be provided when needed for doctor’s appointments or other errands. They also offer assistance to people who need help with computer issues since online learning and transactions are more important than ever.
Local businesses such as Bryson’s Food Store and Highlands Pharmacy, among others, have been very cooperative in helping implement this program, and helped ensure the program’s success.
Responder Carol Taylor was quick to volunteer and was quickly matched by the chamber with a nearby neighbor who was unable to leave her home and needed help with pickup and delivery of groceries and other errands. It has proved a practical way to help her neighbor, build new friendships, and foster a sense of community.
Responder Elizabeth Gordon has a heart for giving, so this program seems tailor-made for her to reach out to those in need.
Elizabeth, who is “so thankful for our community and how we always come together in times of hardship,” says she has enjoyed helping and meeting new people.
For more information, if you’d like to volunteer or need help, contact the Chamber at (828) 526-5841.
