Savi Bhim spoke to us this morning about the COVID 19 catastrophe that is unfolding in India. She and Arun Sharma are coordinating efforts to get aid to those most in need. Following is a report from Savi:
While the COVID 19 has ravaged countries around the world, India has become the one that is hardest hit right now. The second wave came with such a force that it overwhelmed the health care system.
There continues to be a shortage of everything from medical staff to oxygen to vaccine that is needed to help them out of this crisis.
The hospitals are unable to accommodate the sick and many are dying while waiting to be treated. The dead bodies keep piling up as the crematoriums are maxed out and now some areas have resorted to mass cremations.
The COVID-19 has reached the rural areas of India which was spared from the first surge.
This is where 70% of the 1.3 billion population lives. Here is where the poorest live with very basic medical facilities and are not prepared for this COVID-19 surge.
In addition to the COVID 19 a new threat has emerged.
Some who overcame the COVID 19 became afflicted by the Black Fungus infection. This affects the sinuses and the lungs and in severe cases, the doctor may recommend surgery to remove infected or dead tissue to keep the fungus from spreading. This might include removing parts of the nose or eyes.
The situation is dire and the need is immediate.
The Rotary Club of Simi Sunrise has combined forces with the Rotary Club of The Hanging Gardens of Mumbai in India on Project Jagruti. This project aims to help rural areas near Mumbai.
Objectives:
• To create awareness regarding safety and precautions about COVID-19 among villagers.
• To distribute grocery kits to support villagers who are not able to earn their daily living due to lockdown and unavailability of any kind of daily wage work which is the main source of income for them.
• To provide COVID-19 Health-guard kit to villagers and will include an oximeter, a digital thermometer, personal protective gear.
These kits will be distributed by the Rotarians of the Hanging Gardens of Mumbai Club to each family in Karjat Taluka.
The cost for these kits per family is $30 .
If you are interested in donating to this cause please contact:
Arun @ 805-797-7006 or email at aks1231@sbcglobal.net