India’s Covid Crisis: Here’s How We Can Help

It’s been over a year since the start of the pandemic and Covid-19 continues to have a devastating impact on communities across the world. In the UK, we are very fortunate to be enjoying the easing of lockdown restrictions following the decline in cases, however we’re saddened to see the rising Covid-19 infection rates in other countries, like in India. 

What’s happening in India?

In India, a new Covid-19 variant has emerged. It’s dubbed the ‘double mutant’ as it is thought to be twice as infectious as the original variant. Due to a shortage of supplies and space, people with Covid-19 are dying whilst waiting for basic hospital supplies, such as intensive care beds and oxygen tanks.

Although the official death toll is hard to predict due to the large proportion of the population living in densely populated neighbourhoods, India’s total fatalities this week surpassed 200,000. They also recorded over 350,000 new Covid-19 cases in just 24 hours - setting a global record (The Guardian, 2021). 
India’s continued struggle with the new wave of infections acts as a reminder that the pandemic will not end until everyone is safe. This has provoked an international reaction of world leaders supplying India with PPE, oxygen tanks and even spare vaccine supplies. 

Why do we love India?

India is a place close to our hearts, since it’s where our underwear is manufactured. As it stands, the factories are still open in line with government guidelines. We’re in touch with our manufacturer, to ensure each employer and their families remain safe and healthy - which is our main priority. 

How can we help?

Many major cities in India are densely populated and there is a lot of poverty and inequality. Lots of communities are in desperate need for basic necessities, such as food, access to sanitation and medicines. We’ve listed a couple of amazing charities below, which would welcome donations if you’re able. 

Hemkunt Foundation #O2ForYou Oxygen Delivery - 
Not only does this charity distribute packages of food, medicine and sanitation supplies to the most vulnerable communities, they also raise money to provide oxygen cylinders for coronavirus victims. 

Mazdoor Kitchen -
Mazdoor Kitchen is a citizen-run voluntary initiative, working to distribute meals to the poor and unemployed in North Deli. The financial implications of the coronavirus lockdown, risk thousands of people dying of hunger, whilst the threat of Covid-19 persists.

Feeding From Far -

Feeding From Far is an initiative that has been feeding the poor and unemployed who are struggling to feed themselves during the lockdown, in densely populated areas of Mumbai. 

We’ve donated to Feeding From Far, where £20 can feed three families of five for an entire week. We hope that this post has given you some insight into the heartbreaking situation happening in India, and that you can help us to raise awareness and donations. 

by Isabella Richardson