By Atul Lekhra | Programme Incharge
Dear Friend,
I hope this update finds you and your loved ones in good health.
Together, we are facing a truly unprecedented situation. The global coronavirus pandemic is affecting all of our families, our businesses, our communities, and our way of life. The Covid-19 pandemic is a two-pronged health and economic crisis, and requires a two-pronged response.
India has crossed the sobering statistic of one lakh deaths caused by the novel coronavirus and the ongoing pandemic.
From the start of the Covid-19 lockdown in India, Seva Mandir began relief efforts to support families who were most in need in Udaipur and Rajsamand districts.
We provided more than 50,000 relief kits (for food, sanitation, storing grain, sanitary pads, and personal protection) along with supporting the regional government to distribute an additional 38,000 relief kits. Our awareness campaign was able to spread correct information and advice related to the pandemic, reaching more than 160,000 people.
The distribution of relief kits and awareness materials helped families through the initial stages of the crisis. The rapid support provided by individuals, institutions, foundations and corporates was instrumental to the success of our relief efforts.
In our last report, we shared with you the steps which Seva Mandir had taken for the safety and security of the people living in its rural areas. But now the scenario has completely changed, people now are aware about Covid-19 and they also know the ways to keep themselves safe and protected from this virus.
As the initial brunt of the crisis is over and the lockdown is slowly lifted, Seva Mandir’s focus is now on developing and implementing long-term relief for communities and individuals through livelihood interventions.
The economic effects of the Covid-19 pandemic and lockdown are now becoming clear. Migrant labourers have returned back to their villages and are now out of work and putting extra pressure on the meagre resources of their households.
Incidences and reports of violence against women within the household have also risen. This points to male psychological distress due to short-term loss of work and earnings, and subsequent violent behaviour and/or confinement at home with abusive partners during lockdown.
To mitigate the economic effects of Covid-19, Seva Mandir is rapidly expanding its comprehensive livelihood support to ensure families and communities have the tools, knowledge and ability to continue to improve their lives.
Seva Mandir is building the capacity of individuals, families and communities to adapt to the new normal and continue in leading their own development.
We are deeply grateful for your overwhelming support and messages of encouragement.
We are committed to continuing to serve the communities we work with, and we know you will be too. The world will come out stronger after we beat the coronavirus.
Thank you, and sending our best wishes for yours and your family and friends safety.
Regards
Atul Lekhra and the Seva Mandir team
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