SPOKANE, Wash. — Giving Tuesday has arrived again at a time that is crucial for local nonprofits helping those affected by the coronavirus pandemic.
The day typically falls after Black Friday and Cyber Monday in November, but the Giving Tuesday organization moved the date this year due to the "unprecedented need" caused by COVID-19.
Here is how you can give to Inland Northwest nonprofits in need and receive help.
Vanessa Behan Crisis Nursery
Vanessa Behan helps parents who are having difficulty providing safe shelter and care for their children due to issues such as substance abuse, domestic violence and homelessness.
The crisis nursery is asking for people to make a secure online donation in support of Giving Tuesday, or to sign up to be a virtual guests or table captain at its virtual luncheon on June 3.
Ronald McDonald House Charities
Ronald McDonald House, which helps families of sick children nationwide, is asking for online donations in support of Giving Tuesday.
Catholic Charities of Eastern Washington
Catholic Charities, which offers support to homeless residents in the Spokane area among other services, is offering multiple ways to get involved with the nonprofit.
Those interested in helping can donate to its Courage and Commitment Challenge fundraising campaign or joine Catholic Charities online for its virtual Courage and Commitment Challenge Live event.
You can also become a fundraiser for Catholic Charities. More information is available on the nonprofit's website.
YWCA Spokane
YWCA Spokane, a nonprofit dedicated to eliminating racism and empowering women, has compiled a list of ways people can participate in Giving Tuesday on its website.
"We ask that you consider the tremendous impact a financial gift can make on the lives of the women, children, and families we continue to serve each and every day during this pandemic," YWCA leaders wrote.
Second Harvest
Donations to Second Harvest will help provide food to children, families and seniors who are facing hunger.
Any gifts on Giving Tuesday will be matched up to $35,000 by First Interstate Bank.
Those in need of food assistance can visit the Second Harvest website to search for their local food bank, meal center or a nearby Mobile Market free food distribution.
Spokane baker Ricky Webster is auctioning off a Funfetti cake with Greedo from Star Wars in support of Second Harvest. He is asking people to message him on Instagram with their bids until 6 p.m.
Webster says the cake teal and purple funfetti cake with vanilla buttercream icing can feed 20 to 30 people.
Meals on Wheels Spokane
Meals on Wheels Spokane is asking for donations to help feed seniors during the coronavirus crisis.
Money raised on Tuesday will help cover the meal costs of our seniors, as well as help provide care packages full of personal care and pampering items.
Help from Spokane Food Fighters
Spokane Food Fighters and local restaurants are working to combat food insecurity by providing healthy meals.
Wandering Table in Kendall Yards serves as the pick-up point for Spokane Food Fighters.
Deliveries are made between 3-6 p.m. daily. Pickup meals are available between 4:30-6:30 p.m. daily at Wandering Table and pre-order is required.
Where to order meals:
Volunteer information:
Email hello@spokanefoodfighters.org, or call (509) 220-0817
Idaho Gives
Idaho Gives runs through May 7.
Donations are accepted online or by phone at 1-877-ID-Gives, M-F, 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. during the two weeks.
Donors, supporters and nonprofits are encouraged to post photos and talk about their favorite causes across social media using the hashtag #IdahoGives.
RELATED: Idaho Gives: How you can help
