Among the pandemic of the new
coronavirus that is taking place worldwide, the recommendation of the World Health Organization (WHO) and local governments is that people avoid leaving their homes as much as possible. This is the best known way of containing the virus' contagion.
Social isolation is even more necessary for people that belong to vulnerable groups, such as elderly people, people with diabetes, heart problems and chronic respiratory diseases.
We know, however, that this is not always possible, as a great number of people are unable to work from home, such as, for example, health care professionals, which must keep working to maintain health care facilities in operation for the population. In addition, people must go to supermarkets and drug stores to get essential supplies.
During crisis scenarios such as this one, all must unite to help those who need the most. Either for not being able to leave their homes, or for people in social vulnerability, or even to boost the economy.
Dedicating some time and care is an act of humanity, and renews people's hopes of better days. With that in mind, we gathered a list of simple actions that you can do to help others during these difficult times
Teach those who are not familiar with technology to pay their bills and do online bank transactions through phone apps;
Also teach them to order food and other items via delivery apps;
Make yourself available to go to the market and drug store, to buy supplies for your elderly neighbors or other people from vulnerable groups;
Buy from small businesses near your house and help business owners during the lockdown;
If you had any scheduled appointments that you were unable to attend, do not cancel: reschedule. Service providers will need your support to recover. The same goes for health appointments;
Do not purchase food, hygiene products and alcohol in large amounts. Buy only what you need for your family; this way, there will no shortage for anyone;
Do not buy medicine and hospital products if not required. The use of masks and gloves is recommended only for people that have symptoms of the disease. If everyone is buying these products, there will be shortage for those who really need them;
If possible, do not dismiss house workers without some kind of allowance, as another family's income depends on you. The same goes for gyms and other sports centers, which still need to pay their employees;
Loneliness can be a major issue for elderly people, teach them to use instant messaging apps and make video calls, relieving stress and anxiety during isolation;
Homeless people and animals are exclusively dependent on the charity of passersby and local traders to eat. If businesses are shut down and streets are empty, there is no one around to help. If you can, donate food and personal care products to institutions that assist groups in social vulnerability situations.
Finally, whenever possible, help refute fake news! They have a high potential for dissemination via social media and end up causing panic, in addition to spreading information and behaviors that may be extremely damaging at this point;
Helping those in need is everyone's responsibility. But be careful! Do not overlook recommendations from competent authorities. Never put yourself at risk trying to help others. Keep yourself healthy and avoid spreading the disease even further; this is also caring for others.