Let’s start this thread-like piece off with some straight-up honesty: I’m tired, stressed to my limit and all I want to do is sleep. However, the following news bits about companies and people doing good for folks hit hardest by the spread of the Coronavirus makes me feel a bit better.
Although we’re a cam and clip specific site, we know a lot of you have day jobs that help supplement the income you make online. We hope these news bits about companies and people providing financial relief during this very challenging time.
Cell Phone, Internet, Utility Company, Rent and Student Loan Information
On March 17, Autostraddle published a post full of information concerning how some companies and basic-need industries (electric, gas, water) are halting disconnections and payments. The author of the post is updating the article as they get additional information.
Workers are Coming Together to Form Unions
On March 16, The Mary Sue gave a signal boost to The Trader Joe’s Union, which is attempting to get its workers hazard pay during these trying times. This type of action may (we hope) catch on and possibly influence others to create unions where vulnerable workers are protected and receive pay for working in dangerous situations.
WhatsApp Supports Factual Stories
I’m certain you’ve seen some of the bogus stories that have started floating around various social networks. WhatsApp (which, full disclosure, is owned by Facebook) recently created an “information hub that provides advice on how users can look after friends and family, stay cognizant of the latest developments and share verified information,” Engadget reported.
“The website was launched in partnership with the World Health Organization, UNICEF and UNDP, and is meant to help in more than just a social context—healthcare providers, educators, local governments and businesses can learn how to best connect with one another while social distancing is advised,” they added.
Bandcamp, Others Help Musicians
On March 18, Engadget reported that Bandcamp waived “its commission fees on Friday, March 20.” Bandcamp took this step to “help musicians weather the storm while venues across the country are closed.”
Engadget also reported that “some independent labels are also waiving their cuts from record sales. Deathwish, for example, partnered with Bandcamp to help its bands which have had their shows or tours canceled. Fans can buy albums on a ‘name your price’ basis, and all of the revenue that the label would have received will go straight to the bands.”
NextDoor Improves Neighbor-to-Neighbor Services
On March 18, The Verge announced that “Nextdoor, the social networking app designed around local communities, is launching a new interactive map to let neighbors offer help to one another during the novel coronavirus outbreak.” The map is called “Help Map” and allows people to mark their self “as available to help with anything from grocery shopping to child care.”
Face Masks and Hand Sanitizer from Unexpected Places
On March 20, Jezebel reported that fashion companies and clothing producers are beginning to produce hand sanitizer and face masks.
According to Jezebel, “the luxury fashion company LVMH, responsible for brands like Givenchy and Christian Dior, and L’Oréal … have started manufacturing hydroalcoholic gel in French factories to deal with a shortage.”
Also, “Inditex, which produces clothes for Zara in Spain, has started to make surgical gowns and face masks, and Chinese companies like Erdos and Cabbeen have switched from making clothing to making masks and protective suits following a government edict,” Jezebel added. “In America, Dov Charney, formerly of American Apparel and now of Los Angeles Apparel, has offered his factory to produce supplies as well.
Walmart To Give Workers a Bonus
“Walmart is preparing to hire some 150,000 new staffers in its warehouses and stores and to pay its current workers bonuses as the company wrangles with the stepped-up demand from shoppers during the coronavirus pandemic,” NPR reported. “The retailer is also planning to begin piloting drive-up coronavirus testing in Chicago as early as Friday, focusing on health care workers and first responders.”
Also
Some grocery stores are adding seniors-only hours for “vulnerable shoppers.” — Via NPR
And!
Taxes aren’t due until July 15. — Via The Wall Street Journal
Remember: We’re thinking of you all during these unprecedented times. Wash your hands and stay safe <3
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Abbie Stutzer is a queer, non-binary writer living in Kansas City, MO. You can find them doing witchy stuff at home with their numerous pets or at the local animal shelter saving lives. Contact Stutzer via abbie@ynotcam.com.
Background header image via Pexels here.
