By Susan Smith | Director
Covid is smoldering in Tlamacazapa, like an underground burn, having devastated families and now is simmering in this Indigenous community of roughly 8,000, flaring up every few days. Since May 15th over a period of eight weeks, covid took the lives of 34 people; all were adults except one. Currently, covid-related deaths are like a “new normal” – one today, another tomorrow, and yet another, next week.
Since mid-May, the Atzin team has kept close track of the death count, visiting families of the deceased and also going to the village’s two gravesites in a bid to capture more accurate numbers and birthdates. The record shows that more than half of the deceased had pre-existing conditions like diabetes. Many more men than women have died of covid, suggesting that high levels of alcohol consumption over years is likely a significant risk factor.
Atzin’s promoters made multiple door-to-door visits to inform people about covid, assess needs, and pay condolences to those who lost family members. The promoters have completed six food distributions to impoverished families, organized every two weeks, and distributed over 3,500 cloth face masks. During the last distribution (6-10 July), 725 families received beans, rice, lentils and cooking oil. The number of families receiving food rose from 400 to 725 over the three months.The promoters handled each of the six distributions in an organized, calm manner – a capacity-building experience in and of itself.
We are now contemplating activities of “recovery” from covid. The team is very aware of all the work put aside to deal with the pandemic, in particular the health and education programs (dentist; special needs, children’s and early stimulation). But what’s emerging as top priority in the continuing presence of covid is the need for better household nutrition.
Phase two of our covid campaign will continue to feed the hungry and to provide comfort to the ill and to families of the deceased, with the aim of re-starting regular programming as resources allow, and thereby provide opportunities for women and men to engage in meaningful work that earns income. Have a look at the attached link and our covid project for updates on our campaign.
Covid in its present smoldering state with frequent flares, has exposed the fragility of life in Tlamacazapa. Over the years, Atzin compiled more than enough evidence of the village’s toxic environment and the need for wise interventions. Time will tell if these promoters, now quickly building new capacities, can drive greater traction for safe and sufficient water and the construction of their desired women’s wellness centre and shelter.
Thank you as always for your support - your encouragement keeps the team going, probably more than you realize. Gratefully, Susan
Links:
By Susan Smith | Director
By Susan Smith | Executive Director
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