OUR FRIENDS IN NEED SOCIETY COVID RELIEF SUPPORT
Covid Relief
The COVID-19 pandemic has plunged the world into a significant crisis. In India, the outbreak and subsequent lockdown have posed immense challenges for everyone. This unprecedented situation calls for unity and mutual support as we face one of humanity's toughest battles. Daily wage earners have been disproportionately affected, losing their livelihoods with no savings to fall back on, making their situation even more dire.
Our Friends in Need Society (OFINS) has been actively responding since early April, striving to lessen the pandemic's impact and extend assistance to COVID patients and their families. With the surge in cases and the continuation of lockdown measures, we have focused on meeting the urgent needs of our community. We have distributed food and groceries to those struggling to survive. Our efforts encompass grocery distribution, providing masks, sanitizers, and sanitary pads, oxygen support, a COVID help desk, a mobile dispensary, and a grocery and medicine delivery service. We are immensely grateful for the support we have received from countless individuals during this challenging time.
Ready Food Distribution
Since its inception, Our Friends in Need Society (OFINS) has consistently stood by the community, especially during challenging times. The COVID-19 pandemic has severely impacted countless individuals, leaving many jobless and struggling to meet their basic needs for food and medicine. In response to this crisis, OFINS joined hands with the government and other NGOs to provide essential food supplies to those in need.
At the onset of the first lockdown, many families faced sudden hardships, with daily wage earners losing their primary source of income. The immediate struggle for food became a daily reality for countless individuals, especially children. Recognizing this urgent need, OFINS launched an initiative to deliver ready-to-eat meals and essential groceries to provide temporary relief to affected families.
As we witnessed the growing need for sustained support, we knew we had to expand our efforts further. Our commitment to assisting those facing hardship during this unprecedented time remains unwavering, as we strive to uplift our community and help them regain stability in their lives.
Mobile Dispensary for Covid Relief
Mobile dispensaries provide essential health coverage to individuals living in remote and underserved areas. Operating on a regular door-to-door basis, these dispensaries are equipped with doctors, support staff, and necessary medicines, focusing on economically disadvantaged communities. We initiated our mobile dispensary service during the first phase of the COVID-19 lockdown when private clinics were closed, and transportation options were nonexistent, leaving many without access to vital healthcare services.
Through our mobile dispensary, residents can receive medical consultations from doctors and obtain free medicines delivered directly to their doorsteps. This initiative not only addresses immediate health concerns but also helps alleviate the burden faced by individuals who might otherwise go without medical care. By bringing healthcare to those who need it most, we aim to ensure that everyone has access to essential medical services, even in the most challenging circumstances. Our commitment to serving these communities remains steadfast as we navigate the ongoing impact of the pandemic.
Hardik Community Kitchen
In response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 lockdown, OFINS launched the Hardik Community Kitchen to support those most affected, including daily wage workers, migrant laborers, and the homeless. Since its inception in 2020, we have served over 4,000 meals to individuals in need, ensuring that no one goes hungry during these difficult times.
The initiative has garnered tremendous support from local residents who have joined our efforts to sustain this vital service. The Hardik Community Kitchen operates in three distinct areas of North 24 Parganas, reaching those who require immediate assistance.
Recognizing the nutritional needs of children from these vulnerable families, we also prioritize providing nutritious meals to combat malnutrition. Our commitment extends beyond just serving food; we aim to foster a sense of community and support, ensuring that every individual feels valued and cared for during these trying times. Together, we are making a difference, one meal at a time.
Mask & Sanitizer Distribution & Covid Awareness
The significance of wearing masks to protect against the coronavirus cannot be overstated. From the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, masks have been a crucial component of health protocols. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), wearing masks and using hand sanitizer are essential practices whenever we leave our homes.
In alignment with government initiatives, OFINS has actively participated in raising awareness about these safety measures. To date, we have distributed over 5,000 masks and sanitizers to those in need.
Our awareness campaign focuses on educating communities about the importance of consistent mask-wearing and hand hygiene. We have observed a troubling trend of negligence in wearing masks, which increases the risk of virus transmission. Through our efforts, we aim to encourage individuals to prioritize their health and the health of others by adhering to these essential COVID-19 protocols. Together, we can combat this pandemic effectively and ensure a safer environment for everyone.
