The impacts of COVID19 on the 3 informal settlements that SYSC serves (Shauri Yako, Kiawara, and Majengo) could be disastrous. Over 200,000 residents live here in extremely crowded conditions, without running water or enough money for soap. Without rapid prevention measures, COVID19 could kill thousands. Our Scouts troop and volunteers are providing health information, soap and sanitizer to stop the spread and we are sharing food with the many who are already struggling to access it.
Stopping the spread of COVID19 in an informal community is an overwhelming challenge. Many residents live in extreme poverty and rely on hawking for their livelihoods. Physical distancing means they cannot feed their families. Community support is needed fast if hungry families are to stay home and stop the spread.
Our Scouts troop and volunteers are collaborating with local administrators and the Red Cross to reach more people as fast as we can. We've worked in these communities for a long time and know who is most vulnerable: - $25 will provide soap and sanitizer to 50 people - $10 will make and distribute 500 fliers on preventing the spread - $100 will buy food for 20 of the most at-risk families
With rapid action, we can prevent catastrophe. We can the slow uncontrolled spread of COVID19. We can ensure no one goes hungry because of physical distancing. And, eventually, we can reopen our drop-in centre and go back to serving the community through job skills training for youth, an informal school for kids, a community centre, public health workshops and more.
