An online forum designed to secure a helping hand for those in need has soared in popularity amid the public sector’s industrial action.

Facebook page Helping Bermuda has been assisting people with needs such as finding transport after public services were curtailed or withdrawn.

The page, started by Elizabeth Varão, witnessed a jump in member numbers from about 100 to more than 270 in a little more than 24 hours.

Ms Varão has now been joined as an administrator of the page by Kristin White, owner of The Book Cellar in St George’s, who is also the development director of the St George’s Foundation.

“The basis of Helping Bermuda is simple: help one another no matter what, whether it be a food giveaway, clothing or guidance,” Ms Varão said.

“I started the page a few months ago around the holiday season after I found that many people were in need.

“Initially, I started to share posts from others that were aimed at spreading holiday cheer like the Chiko’s Christmas Eve food drive held on Christmas Eve, and many others who were giving away turkeys and the like.

“It started to catch on, and many people started to join and make their own posts.

“Kristin reached out to me yesterday and thought it would be a great idea to push the page with regards to the industrial action and those affected by public transport cancellations and school closures.

“I instantly agreed and got her on board, and the page has blown up since, gaining over 100 more members in less than 24 hours.

“It really shows that Bermudians can band together when times get difficult for the greater good of our community.

Ms White said: “Elizabeth created the page and when I suggested to her that we can use it as a platform for helping connect folks during the union action, she immediately agreed, added me as an administrator and together we’ve been promoting the page to get more folks on it.”

Ms Varão added: “I feel like this page can grow and grow into something that many can utilise.

“There are other similar groups out there, but Helping Bermuda is an open forum aimed at helping anyone who needs help, no matter what it is.

“There are no rules or boundaries. Every little bit counts and if we all come together, we can make the world of a difference in the lives of those who need it most.”

Ms White posted yesterday morning: “With buses and public transport likely to be suspended again for Wednesday, let’s connect to help each other.

“I’m not sure of the best format, but perhaps just post what you need or can provide below and we’ll start from there. It’s a start.”

One person responded: “If you are at the bus stop, I’ll pick you up. Heading from Warwick to town.”

Another, Shoshana Williams, posted: “Picked up the sous chef at Red on my drive into town. You have an amazing employee Rick Olsen.”

Mr Olson, owner of the restaurant, posted back: “Thanks for your kindness.”

Ms Williams said: “I had seen the call to residents via the Helping Bermuda page to assist where they could for people who rely on public transportation, or simply needed somewhere for their children to go while they were working.

“I posted that I would offer rides to anyone at the bus stops that I saw along the way between Warwick and town.

“I saw a gentleman sitting at the bus stop in Warwick and pulled over into the bus lay-by to explain that buses were not running and offered him a ride into town.

“We had a chat about the industrial action and our families during the ride. Kudos to all of the Bermudian residents that are looking out for their fellow residents during this time.”

Ms White said she had posted an offer to look after children at her St George’s book store for those parents left without any means of caring for their youngsters while the schools were closed.

She also provided notification that admission to the St George’s Foundation would be free for people who were looking for things to do with their children while the schools were out.

Another Facebook page, Help give a ride to work Bermuda, posted: “If you can help give a ride to work, please post it here. What time you are leaving, where you are leaving from and where your destination is.

“If you need a ride, also post it here with the same details. Thanks to everyone who can help.”

Ms Varão said: “If industrial action continues, please feel free to post on our Facebook page if you are able to offer a ride to someone who is headed in the same direction as you. Assistance with regards to day camps and day care is also appreciated.”

n Visit www.facebook.com/groups/helpingbermuda and www.facebook.com/pages/Help-give-a-ride-to-work-Bermuda/252118261476780?sk=timeline&ref=page_internal