As you are probably aware from the news, COVID-19 in India continues to be a devastating national crisis. Cases are currently lower in Helping Point’s communities compared to the many areas, as they are in rural areas with a sparser population. In Srikakulam and Gajapati - two of the main districts where Helping Point operates - the official case numbers are around 16,000 and 120 cases respectively. Around 2,000 people in Srikakulam district are in hospital, although the need for hospital beds is far higher and many critically ill people are at home. By the grace of God, there are no known active cases among Helping Point's immediate communities so far, but there is a lot of fear.
St Simon's School, Jhola Children's Home, the daycare centres and the churches had been partially open for several months, but have all been closed again considering the rising cases. Another official lockdown started on May 5. This means that, in practical terms, the situation for Helping Point’s communities is very similar to how it was during the lockdown in 2020. A huge number of villagers are struggling with an entire loss of income, and there is much financial hardship, including among church members. Many local people are labourers who are paid on a daily basis for their work, but no work is available. No work means no income and no money to buy food.
The government is distributing grain portions to alleviate hunger, which helps. Helping Point will be distributing food in the coming days, while also working on a wider strategy to help the community. The charity is also distributing masks and hand sanitizer, and trying to source basic medical supplies. Helping Point also hopes to collaborate with a local hospital to assist those suffering from COVID-19.
How you can help
Please pray for God's intervention in this crisis, and for practical help, comfort and peace for everyone who is suffering.
Please donate if you can, to enable Helping Point to respond swiftly to community needs by providing food and basic medical supplies.
Thank you so much for your support.