When we say ‘We Support You,’ we mean it. Right now, that promise is more critical than ever. Amidst a global crisis and mounting uncertainty, finding ways to support one another is important work.
One of the most troubling characteristics of COVID-19 is that we can’t give the world the physical hug and helping hand it needs right now. So, we put together a list of simple, impactful ways we all can continue to support the communities we live and work in.
Headquartered in Manhattan, the CUUP team is focused on supporting those around us – the half a million homeless New Yorkers, the hundreds of local businesses that make this great city home, and the network of creative freelancers that are inextricably linked to our brand. If you live outside of New York, we hope this list inspires you to support your own community and its unique needs.
SHELTERS
An easy, incredibly important first action is to donate to local homeless shelters & women’s shelters. If you are our neighbor, that list includes, but is not limited to:
- Bowery Mission
- Coalition for the Homeless
- Covenant House
- Win NYC
- NYC Rescue Mission
- Sanctuary for Families
- Frederiks Place (Lalitamba Saranam)
- Henry Street Settlement
RESTAURANTS
Your favorite neighborhood spots operate on small margins. Your servers, line cooks, and bartenders rely on your tips. With doors closing temporarily, an easy way to keep them open in the long-run is to purchase gift cards directly from the restaurant. They can use the income to tide them over; and you’ll have a treat waiting for you when things go back to normal.
CUUP purchased gift certificates from our local go-to’s Little Rascal and Kiki’s and plan to use them for delicious team lunches when we are all back together. We encourage other brands to do the same.
FREELANCERS & CREATIVES
We are part of a creative ecosystem that includes photographers, hair and makeup artists, stylists, and artists who all work on a project basis. With projects postponed, that ecosystem needs some extra love. Buy prints, paintings and drawings. Check in with your freelance friends. Look for artist relief funds being organized in the community. Or simply donate what you can to friends on Venmo or PayPal.
MUSICIANS
As events get cancelled, musicians are losing gigs. Buy a record or purchase some merch to help soften the blow and show support.
WELLNESS COMMUNITIES
There are plenty of safe, nonphysical ways to stay connected to your wellness community – and keeping your stress levels and mental health in check plays a critical role in keeping up immunity. Participate in online yoga classes (we love Sky Ting TV!), keep in touch with your studio, support your yoga teachers, and take a deep breath. Then another one.
If there are other wellness go-tos that keep you healthy and happy during normal times, they are probably in need of a little love right now. Similar to restaurants, you can purchase gift cards to keep them going (our favorites include Heyday and WTHN) – and you’ll have some TLC to look forward to once doors are re-opened.
THE LIST GOES ON
And on and on and on. We hope you use this unique time to get creative and generous about the ways you can support your community. We will leave you with a few final ideas:
- Donate to food banks.
- Donate blood.
- Check on older neighbors.
- Safely drop off food & medicine for people under quarantine or at risk.
- Listen to your own body.
- Take another deep breath.
WE SUPPORT YOU, right now more than ever.
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