COVID-19 global pandemic has severely damaged vulnerable communities in Pakistan. People with disabilities and the elderly are facing significant hardships and are suffering from malnutrition. This has put them at risk of contracting the virus and lowering their immune system.
In first phase in April 2020, HOPE has provided food grants to the vulnerable group of families in Jhelum, Sialkot, Lahore, Faisalabad, and Okara.
In order to continue supporting the vulnerable people during COVID-19 and to deliver necessary food aid, implement a food program, HOPE has started a fundraising campaign for disabled children and elderly people. This possible funding will give them access to basic food and will help them to lessen their hunger. Funds will be used in collaboration with one of the HOPE’s member organizations in Pakistan – “CGA Foundation for Special Children” in Lahore.
Secondly, with the support of our Implementing Partner and a member organization ” Women Shelter Organization ” in Faisalabad-Pakistan, HOPE has provided emergency support to reach out to the vulnerable communities (women and children) and provided necessary safety measures tools. We had encouraging interactions with community members by following COVID-19 guidelines.
Thirdly, with the strong support system of our volunteers, local businesses and friends, the HOPE team in District Kurram Tehsil Sadda and Sub Divisions Upper, Lower and Central Kurram Sadda, have provided more than 1000 masks and emergency food support among 250 vulnerable families by following COVID-19 social distancing and safety measures.
Along with all our activities, HOPE has been organizing zoom meetings to get people socially connected and support each other during this unprecedented pandemic.
A brief interview with Dr. Malik of HOPE has been published on ” Aotearoa New Zealand Association of Social Workers”. Click here to read the interview.
