6 humanitarian ways people have been helping the vulnerable amidst the Covid-19 crisis

The whole world is facing one of the greatest humanitarian crises ever since cases of Covid-19 emerged in the last quarter of 2019. While some communities have begun to reopen with necessary precautionary measures, the catastrophe has indubitably continued to strain resources, leaving millions of people sick, unemployed and struggling to make ends meet. It is easy to feel overwhelmed, powerless and devastated in the face of Covid-19, however, no matter who you are or what your situation, you can still be of assistance. Given the current situation, myriad opportunities exist to help those in need, and to boost solidarity in such challenging times.

Here are five ways to lend support, and make a difference from the safety of your homes:

1. Stay home, stay safe

Although you might feel as though you’re sitting around doing nothing, nonetheless staying home is the best option to comply with. Social distancing and quarantining yourself at home plays a crucial role in ‘flattening the curve’ or helping curb the spread of the infectious disease. It will not only protect you, but also the community, including health workers who are on the frontline fighting the calamity each day.

2. Proffer a helping hand to loved ones

Social distancing definitely does not mean you cannot practice social engagement. The easiest way to give back is by reaching out to people, such as neighbours, friends or family members, especially those who live alone, are elderly, disabled or have health and mobility issues. You can reach out to see if they require assistance in running errands and picking groceries or prescriptions. Similarly, you can just reach out to them and stay in touch via phone, mail or technologies like FaceTime, Zoom or WhatsApp.

3. Donate to charities ‘born to serve’

While many people don’t have the extra funds right now, if you’re one of the lucky ones who do, consider donating to an organisation that’s making a viable difference. One such organisation is the JDC Welfare Foundation, which is engaged to bring about positive changes in the lives of the less fortunate. They have been on the frontline, helping people in all spheres of welfare work, since the last 12 years. Their goal is betterment of poor and needy, without any discrimination or injustice. Many celebrities, including Fahad Mustafa, Faisal Qureshi, Humaima Malik, Dua Malik, Yamna Zaidi, Ayub Khoso, etc. have been a part of their various donation drives.

From distributing rations to white collar people in such testing times to helping widows, unemployed people, students and anyone and everyone who needs any financial assistance or health care services, the JDC Welfare Foundation has always been upfront in being their helping hand. During Covid-19 crisis, the foundation distributed around 35000 to 40000 ration bags to the Covid-19 affectees. As per their routine, their Dastar Khuaan Centre also feeds 50000 people on a daily basis, under the determined leadership of Mr Zafar Abbas. Likewise, they also helped patients of Covid-19 at Expo Centre and another hospital run and managed by the foundation in collaboration with the Lakhani Trust.

4. A little bit of kindness goes a long way

Bad news, bad news everywhere! May it be social media or the TV, there’s a lot of bad news circulating everywhere about death tolls, rising cases and the economic downturn. This means an increase in stress levels of people, and lots of “heated discussions” on different platforms. So commit to sharing positive things; be the reason someone believes in the goodness of people. Compliment your friends, send a kind note to someone you appreciate, or share some feel-good positive news. Sharing such things could brighten someone else’s day and aid in reducing the depression and suicide rates in your surroundings. Practice patience, kindness and mindfulness.

5. Support local establishments

You can support local businesses as well as eateries, which had to temporarily shut their doors amidst the rising number of Covid-19 cases. You can help by ordering things from them online, advertising for them by word of mouth, or just by buying gift cards to reduce the brunt on small businesses.

6. Give blood

Many thalassemia patients as well as those with other medical conditions require blood on a regular basis in order to survive. Due to the rise of Covid-19 cases, fewer people are donating blood as the number of eligible donors has dropped. While many of us have been warned against nonessential errands, it is vital to opt for blood banks that are following safety precautions because donating blood at this time can save many lives.

At the end of the day, it is imperative to remember that we are all in this together. It is important to take care of our own selves, as well as be there for others around us. We can volunteer and donate to help organisations' such as JDC Welfare Foundation, working day and night tirelessly to help make the lives of less fortunate, a little better. It is also equally important to show gratitude to frontline workers risking their lives to make sure we stay safe, and in good health at our homes with our loved ones.