BOZEMAN — Nonprofit organizations are known for their want to help others. But what does that look like in the middle of a pandemic when resources might not be as available?
“Needs are so great that the resources coming in or either a little bit slow to get to people in terms of some of the federal support and just the inadequate federal support,” explained Danica Jamison, the CEO and President of the Greater Gallatin Valley United Way.
“It’s hard because without that face to face contact and without the ability to really build those relationships and really connect with those families. Sometimes they’re reluctant to ask for help,” said Carrie Gilbertson, the executive director for Thrive.
“It’s a challenge to be able to still provide for our seniors in our area, and you know we can’t necessarily visit them and assist them every single day like we used to so we’ve obviously had to adapt to those services as well,” explained Jenna Rhodes with the HRDC.
“At first, it was kind of scary because we needed a lot of food and we needed it quickly,” said Laura Stonecipher, the program coordinator for the Gallatin Valley Food Bank.
So how have these nonprofits been able to stay afloat during a pandemic?
“It’s a very generous community. We are a community that looks out for each other and takes care of each other. I have been repeatedly impressed with how our other nonprofits have worked together,” Gilbertson said.
“We’ve had some revelations come out of this as well that you know we’re thankful for that we can provide services virtually and online for people, and that actually gets people those resources better,” Rhodes explained.
“The community has been incredible. They truly have. We’ve seen some new donors that we’ve never worked with before. It’s just exciting to see people caring for each other. That’s the best part,” said Stonecipher.
There are so many ways you can help out whether that be through volunteering or donating to meet financial needs.
