Supporting Rural Communities in the Darjeeling Himalayas during the Covid-19 Crisis

COVID-19 disproportionately affects the poor and vulnerable- three ways that Broadleaf is supporting our communities.

As we all grapple with all of the changes that COVID-19 has brought into our own households, communities in Darjeeling face similar but magnified threats. This pandemic may overwhelm a health system that already struggles to meet the needs of vulnerable communities. Along with this are severe socioeconomic disruptions as workers lose the ability to earn daily wages, education is suspended, and vulnerable households struggle to meet their basic needs. In this time of need, Broadleaf is standing in solidarity with our Darjeeling-based partner, DLR Prerna, to support a targeted response to this crisis. Here are three ways that we are working to support the communities in which we work: Enhanced Community Resilience Our first line of response to the current crisis began more than a decade ago. Working in rural primary schools, our programs promote healthy and hygienic behaviors that are now life-saving and crucial in reducing viral transmission in communities. Information Provision SHAs and classroom teachers are sources of trusted information in their communities. In a time of misinformation, stigma, and fear, we are supporting this network to disseminate accurate information adapted to the local context. This messaging is crucial to providing guidance on disease prevention, promoting social distancing, and enhancing community solidarity. Direct Support to Vulnerable Households We are working to secure funding partnerships to provide direct support to economically vulnerable households. This support will include direct cash transfers or food & nutritional support. As the Covid-19 crisis unfolds, Broadleaf will continue to stand alongside DLR Prerna in supporting rural communities in Darjeeling Himalayas.