We are facing a situation that is unprecedented in our lifetime. The outbreak of COVID-19, a new strain of coronavirus, is affecting people across the globe but it will undoubtedly hit the most vulnerable in our societies the hardest.
As much of the developed world shuts down in the face of the virus, millions in Bangladesh are ill-equipped to deal with what is to come.
Simple prevention measures such as handwashing with soap and social distancing are near impossible in slums which are densely crowded, with poor access to water, sanitation and hygiene facilities. Those living in poverty do not have savings to buy the necessary soap or sanitiser. Many are day labourers, if they do not work they do not get paid, and there is no safety net. The knock-on effects of a lockdown will almost certainly lead to extreme food shortages.
With only one COVID-19 testing facility for a population of 168 million, located in the capital Dhaka, cases remain undetected. Hospitals are without PPE, and I have been informed many clinics are turning people away and refusing to treat those with cold and pneumonia symptoms.
There is also a serious issue of misinformation, with rumours spreading about how to protect yourself against the virus using local methods such as eating raw garlic or drinking alcohol.
AzuKo has been working with vulnerable communities in Bangladesh for many years. We will do everything we can to support them now. We have launched an emergency appeal to protect those in acute poverty.
I know this is a difficult time for us all but if you are in a position to give – no matter how small – please do. Help us share virus prevention guidance, provide protective equipment and deliver vital hygiene supplies.
Here's how your donation will save lives:
£29 pays for community banners sharing best practice, e.g. hand washing, social distancing
£84 provides 300 x bars of soap, enough to protect a small village
£125 provides 15 x protective equipment (face mask, gloves, hand sanitiser, apron) for our frontline staff
AzuKo is going to be under extreme pressure over the coming months. It is becoming harder for us to raise the vital income needed to keep our charity going.
The postponement of major fundraising events, such as the London Marathon, is having a big impact. Because of social distancing restrictions we're not able to raise support directly with the public. Our corporate partners are feeling the strain, and trusts are overwhelmed by requests for help. If you can support AzuKo by increasing your current regular gift, or making a small one-off gift it will help us continue our vital work during the crisis, and beyond.
Thank you as ever for your continued support. Please look after yourself and those around you.
With gratitude,
Jo Ashbridge
Founder & CEO, AzuKo