COVID-19 has pushed the limits of the most advanced healthcare systems in the world. In northern Syria, where medical care is very limited, a widespread outbreak would be devastating. In response, communities and community initiatives have focused their efforts on prevention.
Over the past few months, more than a thousand families living in the countryside outside of Aleppo have received preventive hygiene kits and information on how to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Hygiene kits included items like masks, hand sanitizer, disinfectant, and gloves. In addition, tents were set up in some communities to raise awareness on preventive measures for COVID-19. This support was delivered through local initiatives in each of the communities, with The Day After providing financial support and logistical help in coordinating local efforts.
“Even though TDA is not a humanitarian or medical organization, we felt it was our duty to support local communities during this crisis,” said Mohamad Haddad, project coordinator at TDA. “We have been fortunate to partner with local initiatives that are working hard to educate and equip community members.”
One of those local partners is the Syrian Civil Defense (SCD), a volunteer organization also known as the White Helmets that has received global recognition for rescuing civilians in the aftermath of bombings. In partnership with the SCD, 75 teachers were trained on COVID-19 and its prevention, who will then share this knowledge with their students. The SCD provided skilled trainers for the activity, while TDA supported the attendance of training participants. Selections from these trainings in this video.
These efforts were focused on economically disadvantaged areas, with the aim of providing preventive supplies for those families that may not be able to otherwise afford them.
