“…do not go to your relative’s house when disaster strikes you— better a neighbor nearby than a relative far away” (Proverbs 27:10b)
With the devastation that has ravaged communities here in L.A. and North Carolina, these 7 Neighborly Practices will prepare neighbors in your community at a grassroots level for disaster. Please share them with others. When disaster strikes, you can’t predict who will need help or support. Will your neighbors be there for you and you for them? Here are some practices to ensure you are all prepared for any kind of disaster.
1. Get to know the names of four or five neighbors. Consider drawing up a street map with their names on their homes. Apps like Nextdoor or Citizens can be helpful here.
2. Make a point of getting to know them and their families!
3. Open and maintain lines of communication. Share each other’s names, addresses, cell numbers. Start a text thread for emergencies, security concerns, etc.
4. Become a familiar, positive presence in your neighborhood. Be active, be seen. Enjoy walks and take time for conversation with the people you meet (be an active listener and encourager!), wave to neighbors, spend time in your front yard or in an apartment or condo patio area, etc.
5. Volunteer to help one another. Offer to take in the mail, feed pets or water plants when neighbors go on vacation or business trips. If you’re able, help with gardening or simple chores.
6. Make yourself available when the need arises. Take a neighbor to the doctor, pick up medicine, bring a meal to someone in need, etc. Sometimes people are hungry for conversation and connection. Take the time to listen.
7. Open your home for neighbors. Create a Neighborhood Watch, host a front yard BBQ, invite neighbors in for a meal, dessert, coffee, etc.