This is a difficult time and we need to focus on the positive and lighter side of the news. In this series we are going to try and bring a smile to your face with some COVID-19 stories of kindness and triumph by showing how our communities are coming to support each other.
NABOR® HELPS Fund Meals for First Responders
During just the first three days of the NABOR® HELPS Fund Meals for First Responders and Front-line Healthcare Professionals campaign – which began on Monday, April 6, 2020 – participation by deserving recipients has exceeded expectations.
With a donation opportunity now available on the NABOR® website (donation link), the organization hopes a boost in private donations will allow this free meal program to be enjoyed by more of the 7,000 professionals who are on the frontline of the coronavirus epidemic in Collier County.
Magic Johnson Will Provide $100M To Fund Loans for Minority-Owned Businesses Impacted by the Pandemic
Los Angeles Lakers legend Magic Johnson is offering $100 million to help fund federal loans for minority and women business owners whose businesses have been impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. Through his Equitrust Life Insurance Company, Johnson will provide capital for loans through the Small Business Administration’s Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). EquiTrust will partner with MBE Capital Partners to offer the loans to those hurt by COVID-19 stay-at-home orders. The loans are aimed at supporting people of color and women who operate businesses in underserved communities.
Set Builders Construct Life-Saving Intubation Boxes For Local Hospitals
Film and television set builder Bret Lehne put together a team of dedicated members to build intubation boxes out of plexiglass for struggling hospitals on the front lines of the pandemic. A doctor friend reached out to him asking for help, and he soon realized his carpentry skills along with the man power of volunteers and donations from online fundraising would be sufficient for making this life-saving equipment. So far, 46 plexiglass boxes have been distributed to hard-hit hospitals, such as the Elmhurst Hospital in Queens, and more are on the way for NY and nearby states.
Couple Performs Free Concerts From Their Porch to Help Neighbors Cope
PHOTO BY LA TIMES/ CHRISTINA HOUSE-SKALIJ
During this time, the one thing that is bringing everyone together is music. From Instagram concerts to Twitch festivals, people are finding new ways to enjoy live concerts from their homes. To help their Madison Heights neighbors cope with the pandemic, Beong-Soo Kim and his wife, Bonnie Wongtakool has been putting on concerts from their porch. Though they are not professionals, they have been playing their instruments since the age of 5. The couple plays the cello and piano every weekend for their neighbors to enjoy. Read more on this amazing couple on this
Leoni's Pizzeria wants to 'treat' you with a pizza dinner
Leonis Naples Park Facebook Page
If you’re a Collier County Public Schools teacher, Leoni’s Pizzeria wants to offer you a pizza dinner on them. “They are really working hard,” said Joanne Venetis, Leoni’s Pizzeria co-founder. “The teachers make a difference in a child’s life.” The dinner, which is the equivalent of feeding four people, includes a large pizza with two toppings, a beverage, chips and a dessert.
Naples, Fort Myers food trucks offer mobile relief amid COVID-19
Photo courtesy of NapleNews.com
With dining rooms statewide closed, restaurants have been forced into takeout and delivery models. Some were built for such a life. Enter food trucks.These trucks usually serve in front of breweries and at events, farmers markets, concerts, etc. But as more businesses close and events are postponed, many trucks have been forced to suspend operations.
LAUSD Teacher Finds a Way to Celebrate Upcoming Graduates From Afar
With many students missing out on milestone moments like graduation and prom this semester, , LAUSD educator Daphne Bradford and the non-profit Mother of Many are creating graduation care-packages for South LA seniors—click below to see what’s inside.
Dogtor Loki Will See You Now
Due to recent hospital restrictions, Maryland-based pup Loki and her mom could no longer do their regular, in-person animal therapy for employees. Now, to make sure medical workers can still find comfort, “Dogtor” Loki has turned to virtual visits and care packages.
Tesla Shows Off Prototype Ventilator For COVID-19 Patients Made Out Of Electric Car Parts
Our Naples, Florida community as always is showing their support to those working tirelessly to help us. Naples country clubs and restaurants are donating meals to COVID-19 workers and you can read more about that HERE.
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Tesla Shows Off Prototype Ventilator For COVID-19 Patients Made Out Of Electric Car Parts
A Tesla engineer explains the company’s prototype ventilator for coronavirus patients. TESLA VIA YOUTUBEIt’s also been wonderful to see big corporations like Tesla doing their part to help out during these tough times. Read more about it HERE.