Thread by @GovPhilScott

THREAD: Today, I’m calling all Vermonters into service with the launch of a new website allowing people to sign up for volunteer assistance to support our response to COVID-19. I’m asking every Vermonter to dig deep and find a way to help. #vtpoli 1/15

vermont.gov/volunteer.

As we prepare for a surge in COVID-19 cases expected in the coming weeks, it will require each of us to do our part to ease the burden on our health care system, the struggles of those less fortunate, and, ultimately, to save the lives of our friends and neighbors. 2/15

Those with medical experience or other health care backgrounds and the ability to volunteer are needed to bolster the ranks of Vermont’s current health care workforce. 3/15

vermont.gov/volunteer

The state’s volunteer website directs these individuals to Vermont’s Medical Reserve Corp units, community-based groups of volunteers who can supplement local emergency, health care provider staff and public health resources. 4/15

This is needed because Vermont’s existing health care workers are going above and beyond to respond to this challenge as it unfolds, and they are going to need reinforcements. 5/15

The Vermont Medical Reserve Corps is seeking these qualified and experienced volunteers, including: 6/15

This effort is about drawing more skilled personnel, such as retirees or those not currently employed in the healthcare field, into the response and not about redirecting existing healthcare workers. 7/15

VT has eased licensing requirements for the purposes of aiding this emergency response. Individuals who are licensed in other states or who were previously licensed should visit the Health Dept. website and review the guide on emergency licensure. 8/15
healthvermont.gov/health-profess…

Other individuals who do not have medical or healthcare backgrounds but are willing to volunteer their time in Vermont’s response effort can register through the state’s volunteer web portal and indicate their expertise and availability. 9/15

vermont.gov/volunteer

We expect to draw upon many skills to meet the challenge of serving those affected by COVID-19, potentially including drivers, food service, construction, IT, security, skilled trades and more. 10/15

Vermonters can also contribute to blood banks, food banks, and other emergency supply efforts. In addition to volunteering, Vermonters can also give back in the following ways: 11/15

Donate PPE: Donations of N95 masks, medical and industrial grade or surgical masks can be brought to your nearest State Police Barracks. You can find the location nearest to you by clicking below. 12/15
vsp.vermont.gov/stations.

Give blood: Visit the American Red Cross by clicking below to learn how to safely donate blood. 13/15

redcross.org/local/new-hamp….

Support your local Food Bank:
Donate online at vtfoodbank.org or you can text GIVEHEALTH to 85511. If you're in need of help, click below. 14/15

vtfoodbank.org/gethelp.

Our state is at its best when Vermonters pull together to help each other. The coming weeks will be very difficult, but united in common purpose, we will face, fight and defeat this virus – and emerge stronger together. 15/15