A mutual aid group in Bloomington-Normal is channeling anxiety and stress over the coronavirus into helping others.
Meghan Reha of the McLean County Mutual Aid Team says the group formed because it's important that people at high risk stay home. Reha said they have about 15 volunteer drivers who will deliver groceries or medicine from pharmacies when authorized.
"There is a volunteer procedure. Each volunteer is equipped with hand sanitzer and wipes to wipe off bags and packaging. They will also follow all the guidelines we have seen from the Centers for Disease Control at this point," said Reha.
Reha says there is a volunteer form for those who want to help at the McLean County Mutual Aid Facebook page and the number to call for people who are at risk and self isolating is (309) 839-9496.
She said the people in the volunteer brigade were looking for something to do for people who should be at home right now.
"Helping our neighbors is the right way to channel our own anxieties and sort of nervous energy in a time when coming together can't be in a place and looking after each other that way," said Reha.
A few of the volunteers will stay at home as dispatchers.
She said other communities around the country are doing similar things, but it's the first one she knows of in McLean County.
Reha said general guidelines for the service are people over 60, those who have a compromised immune system, limited mobility, are currently sick, and who do not have access to other local support.
Reha said people will have to pay for the items, but the delivery itself is free.
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