Neighbors helping neighbors
Need a hand? Someone on your block is happy to help.
HelpingBlock connects older adults with verified neighbors and student volunteers for everyday things: moving a chair, picking up groceries, setting up a phone, or just a friendly visit.
Or jump right in: I need help · I want to volunteer
Free to use. No password. No app store needed.
How it works
Ask
Tell us what you need and when. It takes about a minute. You can type it, or text it from your phone.
A verified neighbor says yes
Nearby volunteers who have passed an ID check get a message. One taps “I can help.”
Meet and get it done
Chat in the app, see who's coming, and share the visit with your family. Rate them after.
What neighbors help with
- Lifting or movingFurniture, boxes, heavy things
- Groceries & errandsShopping, pharmacy, post office
- Tech helpPhone, computer, TV, video calls
- RidesAppointments, church, the store
- Yard workLeaves, weeds, watering, bins
- Company & a chatA visit, a walk, reading together
- Something elseTell us what you need
Safety comes first
You should always know who is coming to your door. That's why HelpingBlock is built around trust.
Read our safety promise- ID-checked volunteersAdults verify with a photo ID and a selfie through a trusted service. We never keep a copy of your ID.
- Parent-approved studentsVolunteers under 18 need a parent or guardian's approval, and only help ID-verified neighbors.
- Your address stays privateVolunteers see only your general area until one of them signs up to help you.
- Share the visitSend a link to a family member so they can see who's coming and when.
- Ratings and reportingRate every visit. Report or block anyone, any time. Our team reviews every report.
For students
Help the people in your own neighborhood and earn real service hours. Check in when you arrive, check out when you're done, and the person you helped confirms your time. Download a certificate for school any time.
Start volunteeringFor older adults and families
Big buttons, simple words, and no fees. Prefer texting? Once you're signed up, you can text your request to our HelpingBlock number and we'll post it for you.
Ask for helpOur mission
Nobody should have to struggle alone with a heavy box or a confusing phone when a kind neighbor lives down the street. HelpingBlock was started by Anika Datta, a high school student in Palo Alto, to bring neighbors of every age together.