Molly Ploe

There’s been a quote being shared a lot recently that I’ve really come to like. It’s a Mr. Roger’s original, and it goes like this:

“When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.’”

Times are certainly scary right now. But Rogers’ mother was right – there are plenty of helpers out there who are doing their best to make things a little bit easier for everyone.

Here are 3 companies that are using their positions and strengths to help those in need:

Mattel Invites Families to #KeepPlaying with the Launch of the “Mattel Playroom,” a New Digital Resource for Parents and Caregivers

One of the biggest challenges for families during the coronavirus lockdown is keeping children entertained. Naturally, toy company Mattel has exactly the kinds of resources and knowledge to help with this.

The Mattel Playroom is an online resource that has a wealth of everchanging activities and content from the company’s various child brands, like American Girl, Fisher-Price, Hot Wheels and more.

“We believe in the power of play and how essential it is for child development, especially in these difficult times when so much is in flux for kids and families,” explained Richard Dickson, Mattel’s President and COO. “We recognize the unique challenges that parents and caregivers are facing right now both working and playing from home and have designed the Mattel Playroom to be a valuable resource for them.”

Resources include printable coloring pages, online games, downloadable apps, ideas for DIY crafts and more.

KFC is Providing One Million Pieces of Kentucky Fried Chicken to Feed Communities Across America

KFC workers have made an effort to support their local communities during the coronavirus outbreak. Individual franchisees began initiatives like donating meals to frontline health care and other essential workers. The company as a whole has decided to build upon these efforts on a national scale.

“Seeing our franchisees coming together and helping their neighbors during this crisis has inspired us to do more,” said Kevin Hochman, president, KFC U.S.

KFC will send 1 million pieces of chicken to more than 4,000 U.S. restaurants specifically to donate to those local communities.

“Many KFC restaurants across the U.S. are small, family-owned businesses, and while they are facing uncertainty, they continue to keep their restaurants open every day to feed our customers,” Hochman said. “During this unprecedented time, our franchisees are also helping make sure those in need are able to enjoy the comfort and familiarity of a hot meal.”

Jo-Ann Craft Stores Are Giving Away Free Kits to Make Face Masks

As many health care workers are faced with shortages with essential protective equipment, crafters everywhere have stepped up to help. Jo-Ann Fabrics and Crafts decided to lend a hand in this initiative by putting together kits to make gowns and face masks, then giving them away for free.

“The amazing thing about the crafting community is that, especially in difficult times, they are always looking for ways to help,” Wade Miquelon, President and CEO of Jo-Ann, said. “We are seeing hospital workers, organizations and individuals coming into our stores for supplies to make these essential items and our customers are asking us how they can help.”

Jo-Ann has tutorials online to help beginners learn how to sew the masks (and other projects) themselves.

Crafters are invited to bring the completed supplies back to their local Jo-Ann, where they will be collected and donated to nearby medical facilities.

Recognizing who the helpers are can help you find peace in these uneasy times. It may also inspire you to find ways you can help out. Let us know what you’re doing to help others right now in the comments below.