Most communities have programs to assist those in need, as well as myriad resources offering advice to anyone facing daily dilemmas. But not all of those are available at the other end of a computer connection, immediately when the need arises.
That’s where Facebook “helping hands” groups come in, with at least two serving the greater Twin Ports.
“I grew up in Superior and I did a lot of moving with the military,” said Corinne Yrjanainen, who moderates the group Superior, WI Community Help with Ruby Berg. “I realized that many of those places have community help Facebook groups, and Superior didn’t have one, so I decided to start it.”
Jacqueline Brantley noticed the same need in greater Duluth after years of volunteering, including at homeless shelters, leading her to create Helping Hands in the Northland.
Together the sites offer advice and resources to anyone who logs on, with a willing pool of community members eager to assist.
They spoke about their pages with WPR’s Robin Washington on “Morning Edition.”
Robin Washington: The very first thing we should say about both of your sites is that they’re free. This isn’t Facebook Marketplace and no one’s supposed to be making money on your pages.
Corinne Yrjanainen: Correct. We do allow people to advertise their business, but it’s not a personal selling site where people can post things like clothes for sale.
Jacqueline Brantley: A lot of people are asking for food assistance. That is one of the greatest needs in our community. Also rental assistance, electricity bills, diapers, formula, kids clothing.
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