The coronavirus has forced everyone to rely more on technology to communicate with friends and loved ones.

It’s inspired some low-tech solutions for staying in touch as well.

In Lansford, residents are letting neighbors know if they need assistance with a system of brightly colored signs they can place in their window.

A blue sign means everything is OK. A green sign means the person needs groceries. A red one means they need medical assistance - though residents are encouraged to call 911 before displaying a red sign.

The idea first came to Lansford thanks to Mayor Michele Bartek.

“It’s working, it really is,” she said. “And I think people are also taking them for security, it’s just something a little extra.”

Bartek cut out hundreds of signs and placed them at businesses such as the Friendly Food Mart and restaurants.

The goal is to help elderly residents and parents who can’t get to the store while watching their children.

“Maybe the neighbor can get it for you if you don’t have the ability to. Anything to help each other out,” she said.

Lansford Police Chief Jack Soberick said it’s nice to see the community come together to support each other amid the coronavirus.

He encouraged people to call 911 before displaying the red sign in their window, but if they are feeling ill or displaying coronavirus symptoms, the red sign will tell the officers that they need to take extra precautions.

“Let’s face it, we all have people who are elderly in our area, or who need help and when you look over in the morning, if the blue cross is there, you know they’re doing OK,” he said.

Bartek said she’s already personally bought groceries for neighbors who can’t get out because of health problems. She said she’s willing to do anything to help her neighbors, in Lansford and beyond.

“It’s just the American way. People helping people. When it gets tough, we all stick together,” she said.