There are many volunteer opportunities for Elmhurst residents to help their community respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.

There is a critical need for blood donors as hundreds of blood drives across the Chicago area have been cancelled and more than 4,000 across the country. According to FEMA and the Surgeon General, donors can and should continue to visit blood centers and drives to donate. Vitalant (formerly Lifesource) blood centers currently have extended hours, and one is right next door in Villa Park at 100 E. Roosevelt Rd. Every donation can save as many as three lives.

Register to donate now at www.vitalant.org

Senior citizens needing help with groceries or other needs and neighbors looking to help should contact DuPage County Community Services. DCCS is coordinating volunteer organizations assisting our senior citizens in staying home and staying safe.

To contact DCCS, call 630-407-6500 and press option 2 for Senior Services.

Giving DuPage is currently coordinating multiple charitable and community service organizations that all have urgent needs. Many volunteer organizations rely heavily on dedicated senior citizens who are most at risk from COVID-19. Please go to the GivingDuPage volunteer needs portal to fill in for those who have had to step back.

https://givingdupage.galaxydigital.com/urgentvolunteerneed/