Tri-Valley Finds The 'Social' In Social Distancing

TRI-VALLEY, CA — With much of the Bay Area under a shelter in place order due to concerns about the new coronavirus, it could be tempting for residents to panic, focus only on their own needs and ignore those of their neighbors. Dozens of local volunteers instead have stepped up to help their neighbors in unprecedented times.

"We're just trying to do our part to make sure that everybody is safe, said Dublin High School teacher Michael D'Ambrosio, founder of Facebook group Tri-Valley Community Help During Shelter In Place. "People are scared and why not do our part to help?"

D'Ambrosio said he found himself with extra time on his hands after Alameda County issued a stay in place order Monday, effectively tabling Dublin Unified School District's remote learning plans. He wanted to find a way to use his time off work to help others in his community and knew others felt the same way.

He said he created the group around 10 a.m. Tuesday. By that afternoon, D'Ambrosio assembled a team of some 60 volunteers, from teenagers to seniors.

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Among them were D'Ambrosio's colleagues, Dublin High teachers, willing to offer free online tutoring in the subject of their expertise. Others were at the ready to grab groceries, pick up medications, share supplies and more.

Now, D'Ambrosio is looking for takers. Anyone who needs help of any kind is encouraged to make a post requesting help on the group or send D'Ambrosio, the moderator, a message.

"I would love nothing more than to be super busy all day, running errands for people," he said.

Livermore neighbors came together in a similar Facebook group, Livermore Hope Lifeline 2020.

Residents offered to grab extra diapers or pet products for neighbors while on a trip to the store, reposted community announcements, offered up free lemons and toilet paper, and shared recommendations and words of encouragement.

"I’ve only been here a few minutes and I’m already crying," wrote one poster. "Thank you for being such an amazing community."