COVID-19 Relief Work by YMCA India

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Last Updated (Friday, 30 July 2021 15:18)

The National Council of YMCAs of India

COVID-19 Relief Work in India – A Report


Impact

 

 

Background

In the wake of an unprecedented surge in COVID-19 related infection and deaths in India in April 2021 the Asia & Pacific Alliance of YMCAs issued an Appeal letter. In response, generous donations were received from National YMCA Movements, World Alliance of YMCAs, and individuals.

Implementation

Relief work was carried out by the Indian YMCA through its Branches (Projects).

Due care was exercised to follow WAY Emergency Appeals Guidelines, including:

  • Select and orient volunteers and professionals to be involved in the project.
  • Develop guidelines for food procurement, preparation, packaging and delivery.
  • Consult local government/hospitals and share about the program to seek approval and cooperation.
  • Roll out the program, capture lesson learnt and share in the team meeting.
  • Gather background information of the food aid recipients.
  • Documentation
Relief Work at Udupi Project

Hon’ble Education Minister, Government of Tamil Nadu
handing over the first Relief kit at Tirupattur Project

Relief Work in association with Indian Red Cross Society at Faridabad Project

 Relief Work at Vellore Project

Human Interest Stories

Mrs. Kaveri is a 72 year old physically challenged lady. Due to restricted mobility, she is unable to walk. She has no family, and has recently had to resort to begging. However, her basic requirements are not met. The YMCA Boys’ Division, Tirupattur, extended a helping hand and provided her food, clothes, sanitation kit. She was given extended counselling sessions to help her deal with mental health issues.
Mrs. Haseena is a 23 year old lady, whose husband left her with four children to raise. In order to look after her children, she became a house maid in three houses. She used to work 6 hours per day to earn Rs. 5,000/- per month. During the complete shutdown and huge spread of Covid 19 in Tirupattur, she lost her jobs. The YMCA provided dry ration kit and ensured a balanced diet for 10 days.
Mrs. Savithri aged 30 years, has two children and a sick husband to care for. She works as a domestic help, earning a monthly income Rs. 2,500/-. Due to the pandemic she was not allowed to work in the house, leading to a sudden loss of her only source of livelihood. Kurnool YMCA provided ration kits that enabled her to feed her family for a week.

YMCA India remains grateful to the generous donors, and to WAY and APAY for their support; to the Officers and National Executive Committee for their guidance; and to the volunteers, members, YMCA Professional Secretaries for implementation.

Bertram Devadas
National General Secretary

July 19, 2021