Staying in touch with your community in a time of Covid-19
With the effects of globalisation, social media and the self-promoted individualism of the modern world, the solidarity amongst the members of small communities, such as neighbourhoods, seems to be slowly deteriorating. While this may very well be the natural course of our societal evolution, having a strong bond of mutual trust among your immediate acquaintances is key during times of crisis and extraordinaire.
Covid-19 and the responding pandemic control initiatives have shown us that humanity still has a very strong sense of community and solidarity. We saw people around the world cheering and applauding the health workers almost every evening, daily meal services and soup kitchens for the less fortunate, people of influence donating to initiatives against Covid-19 and encouraging people to do the same, and so on.
So, what can we do to share the burden and offer a helping hand? What is the best way to stay in touch with your community and promote unity for a better tomorrow?
Keeping social distance
In a poetically ironic way, one of the best things we can do to promote solidarity and show that we care for the safety of our fellow people, in times of Covid-19, is to keep our distance from each other. By following the guidelines on how to conduct social interactions in a safe manner, we can slow and even stop the spread of this disease.
Helping the elderly
In many places, young people are seen running errands and doing grocery shopping for the elderly in their community. Since the elderly are much more vulnerable to Covid-19, their isolation is very important. This means they cannot go outside for their daily needs. Which is why, as seen in social media, younger members of the community are leaving notes on their building announcement posts to let everyone know that they are ready to help.
If you know any elderly in your area that live alone and aren’t meant to go outside, you can offer assistance with their shopping. Of course, with proper caution such as face masks, protective gloves and sanitisers.
Donation
There are many brave men and women fighting this disease and its impact on various aspects such as collecting medical supplies, handing out food to those in need, supporting people who lost their jobs due to the pandemic and many more. If you don’t know any elderly you can assist or if you are above a certain age yourself, you can also help your community by making donations. Donations in times of crisis can make or break initiatives since they rely on continuity of financial support to help their cause.
Don’t forget about our little friends
The lockdown has affected more than just the people; with streets empty and restaurants closed, many cats and dogs that live on the street are feeling confused and lonely. You can leave cups of water and some food at your doorstep to provide an easy meal for our furry friends. They have no idea what’s going on with the sudden change in their environment, so they could really do with a nice meal to comfort them.
We will get through this together and come out stronger
One of the most important lessons Covid-19 has taught us is that we need each other and that we are stronger together. We firmly believe that once the pandemic is over, we will be more resilient and unified as a community. Until then, let’s stay home and stay strong.
#StayHome #StayInTouch
