RESPONDING TO THE NEEDS OF THE COMMUNITY
Competent development work involves collaboration with locals to understand their most pressing needs. Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic in April, we reached out to the community about a mask and hand sanitizer distribution program. The need they voiced instead was for food items.
On Sunday, April 26, 2020 we delivered 40 food hampers to households facing food insecurity as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite this, limited funds forced us to turn away many families in need of support
This month, we are setting our fundraising goal at $1,000 before May 16, 2020, which will allow us to deliver 500 additional meals to families in need. Wherever possible, we are prioritizing distribution to vulnerable women: breastfeeding mothers and widows in need.
Effect of covid-19 on Doryumu
COVID-19 has threatened the ability of families in Doryumu to put food on the table.
The closure of workplaces, and loss of jobs has meant that many cannot continue to earn their daily income. This has threatened their ability to meet basic needs.
Left: Esther Naa Ankrah presents a food hamper to a breastfeeding mother in Doryumu.
Women Impacted
Women, particularly breastfeeding mothers and widows, are disproportionately impacted.
Many women in Doryumu lack financial independence and rely on the support of male heads of households for income. This leaves them vulnerable to exploitation and domestic abuse.
Additionally, lack of access to nutritional foods places acute threat on the health of mothers and newborns.
Widows often live alone and lack access to independent sources of income. This has also increased their vulnerability during the pandemic.
Food Hamper Distribution
On Sunday, April 26, 2020 Yayra-Si Youth Foundation distributed 400 meals to 40 households in Shai-Osudoku facing food insecurity due to COVID-19.
Recipients
- 34 elderly women, who were raising young women
- 6 breastfeeding mothers
Ramadan
About 50% of our beneficiaries were observing Ramadan and provided iftaar.
