It is important to mind our own safety, but also extend a helping hand to those in need.
MISSISSAUGA, Ontario (PRWEB) November 05, 2020
The Covid-19 pandemic has afflicted the nation and given rise to not only illness, but unemployment and homelessness. As cited by Global News, "Canada’s unemployment rate reaches record 13.7%" making it a challenge for good people to pay mortgages and keep their homes. "Moreover, an annual youth unemployment rate of 28.0% would top the previous high of 19.2% set in 1983 by 8.8 percentage points (i.e. by 45.8%)" as stated by Stats Canada indicating a struggling economic situation comparable to the early years of the Great Depression.
Homes First Society, located on 545 Lake Shore Boulevard West, provides shelter to those experiencing homelessness with nowhere else to go and in need of support. '[They are] the first and remain one of the largest providers of homes for people with the fewest options in Toronto.'
Despite charitable efforts in sheltering people in need of support during these difficult times, "...they're met with perfect conditions for the rapid spread of the coronavirus: overcrowded and sometimes unsanitary conditions, surrounded by others who have come in contact with hundreds of people prior to entry, with the added risk of pre-existing conditions," as quoted by Global Citizen. The rapid spread of the Covid-19 disease paired with lockdown and social distancing measures has only driven these groups into a more vulnerable and susceptible position to the infection.
In the midst of fall with winter fast approaching, Global eBrand had recognized a fitting response to supporting those misfortuned by unemployment and homelessness as a result of Covid-19 by donating 700 jackets to the charitable organization. The jackets will not only provide necessary padding to combat the oncoming colder months, but also another shield of protection against the wide-spreading virus lingering in the dense, cold air.
Nirav Gandhi, Co-partner of Global eBrand, expresses his thoughts, "Everyone is having a hard time in different ways and the circumstances are predicted to only worsen in the winter as the cold lingers in the air. It is important to mind our own safety, but also extend a helping hand to those in need. As such, we decided to donate jackets to help these good people through their rough patches in combating the cold outside."
"Through charities, non-profits and community organizations, volunteers in Canada are providing essential services to vulnerable groups on the front-line of the current COVID-19 pandemic...Over 12.7 million Canadians, aged 15 and older, volunteered for charities in 2018" (StatsCan, 2020).
“It fills me with emotion and joy to be able to be part of this aid project, there is nothing better than helping those in need. We live in a society that needs everyone's support. I am sure that if we all contribute a little, the world would be a better place. I am grateful for the opportunity that Global eBrand has given me to be part of this! We will continue to donate to those who need it most,” says Yolanda Kirsch, Head Organizer of the Jacket Donation Project.
YES, YOU CAN HELP TOO.
It is hoped that each small, meaningful gesture of kindness as exemplified by small businesses like Global eBrand are not only celebrated, but inspire and spark action in others to follow the same path of giving and love during these much uncertain times. #volunteernow #helpothers #givelove
HOW CAN I HELP?
KEEP SAFE and practice social distancing effectively. Minimize the bubble by keeping yourself and the ones around you safe.
BE AWARE of the direct AND indirect effects of the Covid-19 pandemic such as unemployment, homelessness and environmental concerns of increased single-use mask consumption.
GIVE ATTENTION and spread the word about what is going on. The first step towards a solution is acknowledging the problem and having it known.
DONATE ANYTHING from your very own home. The first donation that comes to mind is usually monetary, but you can also donate food, textiles, blood and more to a plethora of local charity organizations.
VOLUNTEER to help! Work with charity organizations and even your local government to support those in need while upkeeping safety standards (click here for Toronto charity groups specific to Covid-19 relief: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/donate-to-coronavirus-outbreak-response/).
Although fall may be cold outside, people are still inherently warm-hearted inside. We may all be practicing social distancing, but we still support our neighbors and are united as a collective society.
