India Emergency COVID-19 Appeal5/13/2021 Through our partners, Week of Compassion is responding to the urgent situation in India, as well as in other parts of the world where COVID-19 rates are escalating. In many countries, new strains of the virus are causing widespread economic hardship, compounding illness and loss of life. Joseph Sahayam, from our partner CASA in India, reflects, “It’s time to unite and focus on immediate needs. The situation in India could be a warning for the rest of the world, but also lead the way to more global solidarity.” CURRENT SITUATION: India’s total number of COVID-19 cases had dramatically risen to over 24 million as of late April; with more than 400,000 daily cases for the past seven days, with no signs of slowing down. These have been the highest numbers of reported cases and deaths since the pandemic started, and medical experts believe that the numbers are even higher, with many cases from rural areas going unreported. Hospitals are under immense strain with medical supplies diminishing--especially oxygen--and many people are resorting to the black market. Maharashtra and Gujarat in the west, Haryana in the north, and Madhya Pradesh in central India are all facing an oxygen shortage. In the northern state of Uttar Pradesh, some hospitals have put "oxygen out of stock" boards outside, and in the state capital Lucknow, hospitals are asking patients to move elsewhere. Hospitals and crematoriums alike are overwhelmed, and hotels and railway coaches are being converted into critical care facilities to make up for the limited space in medical facilities. CURRENT NEEDS AND OUR RESPONSE: Immediate needs include access to health care, medical supplies, and particularly oxygen. And of course, there is an urgent need to educate people on risk prevention and address vaccine hesitancy. The fear of taking vaccinations is especially prevalent in rural areas. Initial response from our partners includes intervention support for people that are sick at home or quarantined with cash to support emergency medical needs. Our partners are also working to support mitigation, hygiene, and food security among some of the most vulnerable. We are grateful for the work of our partners around the world who are meeting the challenges of this time with great compassion. The need may seem overwhelming--but together, we can have a big impact on the lives of those in need. Together with our partners, and through your generosity, our compassion is at work, reaching around the world. Please consider giving to help respond to the current COVID-19 crisis in India. Ways to give:
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