Giving Tuesday Now: Support local nonprofits in Southwest Florida on May 5

It’s called “Giving Tuesday Now” and it’s this Tuesday, May 5. While the event focuses on all forms of generosity, there’s a special focus on non-profits still providing services during this tough time.

Non-profits like Valerie’s House are a lifeline for families.

When Alexa Bustamante lost her dad six years ago, her family turned to Valerie’s House for free grief counseling.

She said, “They were there for me in my darkest times and I don’t think it would be here right now if it weren’t for them.”

“It felt like the world was crashing down on me,” Bustamante added. “My dad was one of my best friends.”

And right now, it’s nonprofits like Valerie’s House that need a lifeline. That’s why communities are coming together for Giving Tuesday Now. Founder Angela Melvin says even though their donations are down the demand for grief counseling is not.

She said, “Valerie’s house was the beneficiary of several events that have all been canceled. So we’re talking about a $200,000 to $300,000 hit to our budget so far the year”

Saying goodbye to loved ones during this pandemic has made a challenging time even more challenging.

“They have not had their chance to say goodbye to the person many times either in person, perhaps that person was dying was an illness, but because of the restrictions in the hospital setting the family wasn’t allowed in there to say goodbye,” Melvin explained.

And they’re one of the many groups participating.

United Way says donations to their relief fund support people here in Southwest Florida.

Melvin said, “Whether it be Valerie’s House or so many of the other wonderful nonprofits out there. Let’s get together let’s band together and make tomorrow a really special day.”

Getting people who depend on these services, the help they need.

“Because we’re going through a pandemic right now, more people are going to go through loss and are going to be grieving a loved one,” Bustamante said. “I think it’s so important to let others know there is hope there is a way to find to find peace.”

CLICK HERE to visit Gulfshore Life for the full list of nonprofits and how you can help.