City councils, citizens and civil society organisations are creating measures in neighbourhoods and communities to sustain social cohesion and to keep our spirits up.
Food baskets for the homeless
To support the homeless during the coronavirus pandemic, the residents of Naples put baskets outside their windows filled with basic necessities.
Code word for domestic abuse
In France and Spain women can use code words to report domestic abuse at pharmacies.
Letters to fight social isolation
A postcard template lets people offer their help to neighbors in self-isolation. Measures to slow the spread of viruses can force people to self-isolate. During the current outbreak of Covid-19, many people have to stay
Nationwide Covid-19 volunteering effort
A government initiative coordinates volunteering efforts at a local and nationwide level, connecting state and voluntary resources.
Online socialising in quarantine
A digital platform makes it possible to schedule online activities and virtual meet-ups.
Making a cycling festival corona safe
The Lake Erie Cyclefest is spread out over two months allowing participants to complete their rides without causing large crowds, where the virus could spread.
Robot greets visitors
A robot greets visitors in an Austrian care home, takes their temperature and reminds them of wearing a mask.
Platform connects pupils with university students for support
An online platform connects pupils who need help with their remote learning tasks with university students who have time to help.
Support for community-led mutual aid groups
An online platform gives advice on how to start a local mutual aid group in times of Covid-19.
Online language buddies
A Swedish organisation connects newcomers with online language buddies helping both to cope with the isolation.
Providing hospitals and frontline medical staff with necessary equipment
To provide hospitals with missing equipment, an initiative crowdsources necessary materials such as masks and visors.
Bags as sign of solidarity
People hang cloth bags with the German word for “good neighbours” out of their windows to show they are willing to help.