COVID-19 and the Pioneer Valley Mutual Aid Map

As the pandemic began its sweep through the United States we have seen incredible mutual aid responses pop up all over the world, and in our local communities. And what better way to visualize those efforts than a map! The local Pioneer Valley mutual aid network reached out in need of a map to help visualize the locations of neighborhood point people and the regions they represent– so we used our wonderful SAL intern, Hannah’s, guide on how to create a crowdsourced map that automatically updates to make the the Pioneer Valley Mutual Aid Map. It’s taken off and is used by the larger Western Mass community organizing to distribute groceries, provide rides, and offer assistance to those more adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.