Bangladesh at the time of COVID-19: emergency assistance to families

Children do not go to school. Fathers can't go to the field. There is no income. Rice prices have risen by a third. Families of the poorest are starving. This is a stark description of the state of emergency caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in Bangladesh. See how ADRA responds and what you can do.

No one expected it, and yet the COVID-19 pandemic hit the world with astonishing speed and unexpected force. The consequences are different in different countries. The situation is most severe for the socially weak and the poor.

In Bangladesh, 24 million people live in absolute poverty (and millions more in slightly less poverty). There are also 1 200 families of children we are helping in BanglaKids program. Dependent on the daily income of fathers, often illiterate day labourers, who sell their power for (for us) unworthy wages. And even here they do not get it, because the curfew deprived them of the opportunity to work. Consequences? Suffering that we probably can't even imagine. What with this? (click on the banner below or read on)

-> HELPING CHILDREN AND THEIR FAMILIES

Based on negotiations with schools and partners in Bangladesh, we decided to provide financial assistance to 1 200 families of children during and shortly after the emergency. Through the mobile network, we can send funds to families for subsistence. Material assistance is almost impossible at the time of the curfew.

1. Families of children in village schools
  (1st-5th grade)

We will help the families of children in village schools with a one-time meal allowance. The support is widespread, with respect to the village community. It applies to all children in the class, supported and unsupported. The solidarity contribution of donors introduced two years ago is a great benefit to us in this situation.

2. Families of children from boarding schools
   (6th-12th grade, bachelor's study)

Financial assistance to the families of the poorest children from boarding schools, half-orphans and university students is covered from about 70% of the funds of regular donors intended for the study and life of children at boarding school. We have also reduced the salaries of local teachers.

3. To needy families from slum areas

ADRA Czech is further involved in a large joint project to help 3,000 families of the poorest slum areas. We are participating in this project together with, for example, ADRA Bangladesh, ADRA Poland and ADRA Germany. It is also attended by private donors from South Korea and other entities.

You can help children and their families with one-time contributions here. And of course by sharing an FB post with friends. Thank you.

-> COVID-19 in Bangladesh 

March 8 – the first confirmed case of COVID-19 in Bangladesh
March 16 – school closures from March 17 to 31 (later extended until April 30)
March 17 – the first confirmed death from COVID-19 in Bangladesh
March 23 – state of emergency declared from March 26 to April 4 (extended until April 9)
April 5 – a total ban on international flights
April 10 – an extension of the state of emergency (gradually until April 25)
April 23 – an extension of the state of emergency (until May 5)
April 27 – school closures extended (most probably until September)
May 2 – an extension of the state of emergency (until May 16)

-> ENSURING EDUCATION OF CHILDREN

• Children and students, except for most orphans, are at home with their parents during emergency measures.
• Teachers and orphans remain in schools. Their basic needs and food are provided.
• The government broadcasts educational programs for 6-10. class. However, they do not have television everywhere.
• Supported schools are considering moving teaching to the holidays (June and December).
   

We will keep you informed of further developments.

-> HOW CAN I HELP?

1. Financially

You can help children and their families with one-time contributions by clicking on the banner.

2. Sharing posts

You can also help by sharing FB posts, articles and messages among friends. Thank you for everyone at BanglaKids.

P.S. One wise man said a long time ago, "Cast your bread upon the waters,
for you will find it after many days." We believe that this has been, is and will be. Thank you for helping people in need.

More information about program Support BanglaKids