From teddy bears to porch parties, neighbors are lifting up neighbors in Buffalo

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — Teddy bears, window art, porch parties— these are just some of the ways neighbors are helping neighbors feeling connected during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Walk down Lexington Avenue near Elmwood at 5:30 and you might hear "Can't Touch This," and "Jailhouse Rock." These are just two of the songs played during a neighborhood porch party that started a week ago.

“Great way of checking on the neighbors people are sequestered in their homes and gives them a chance to step out on the sidewalk keeping their social distancing and wave to their neighbor,” said the homeowner providing music to the block.

Western New Yorkers of all ages are looking out for one another. People going on a walk in the Elmwood Village might spot some new window art, or maybe even a teddy bear. Children in the Elmwood Village are hanging rainbow drawings in the window. It's an art activity for children, but provides a sense of community for parents.

“Just looking out the window and seeing a rainbow it was just kind of nice, kind of nice to see," said mother Erin McCabe.

It's not just rainbows. The Elmwood Village Association has a window art schedule, so you can be on the lookout for future walks.

Don't forget to look down too, sidewalks have become quite the sight.

Another reminder that we're all distancing together.