Coronavirus outbreak: How leading organisations can contribute to the community during a pandemic

Nelson Mandela once said, “when people are determined they can overcome anything.” 

We truly are faced with an unprecedented public health emergency. But at times like these, more than ever, we can come together and create a meaningful impact in the communities around us. 

We need to strongly commit and dedicate ourselves in providing support to communities during these difficult times and salute the sacrifice, perseverance and dedication of all those who are at the forefront of this fight. Our joint commitment to give every possible support to the communities awakens the hope that these consolidated efforts can make a significant difference in these testing times. During the times of a global health crisis, organisations can collaborate with NGO’s which are working extensively to reach out to the affected communities. Providing masks and gloves, creating awareness about the symptoms and precautions, ensuring access to essential commodities are the major intervention areas where the organisations can contribute and extend their support to.   

Ensuring the health and well-being of the society at large is something all companies must address. Proper nutrition, good dietary habits, and an active lifestyle are integral to maintaining good health. Therefore, adopting a healthy lifestyle during these critical times ensures healthy living and lesser health issues.  

In this regard, companies should leverage the network in communities they have built through their societal initiatives. They can use social media and phone calls in collaboration with NGO partners to educate community members on the steps to be taken to prevent COVID-19. Local influencers can be engaged to ensure that the seriousness of the situation is conveyed adequately and that people are more receptive towards the precautionary measures that are to be taken to flatten the curve. These are the measures we are also taking through our network under the Nestlé Healthy Kids Program and for our beneficiaries as part of our Project Jagriti.                                                                                                                                      

While all of us are doing our best to get through this by isolating ourselves and social distancing, few among us are out on the streets trying to keep the society afloat, trying to help our world heal. Our waste workers are also among these front-line fighters. While the collectors are facing the danger of getting infected every day, the scrap dealers and rag pickers are dealing with lack of work and little or no means to earn their livelihood. However, one common problem that engulfs all kinds of daily wage workers is limited or no access to basic essentials.  In collaboration with local stakeholders, we can reach out to these waste workers enabling them to face the COVID-19 crisis by providing essentials, creating awareness and equipping them with safety gears. 

Alongside communities, companies must also explore ways to help out their external partners like distributors. The front-line sales force who work for distribution partners is the heroes who are heeding to a call of duty to ensure much-needed products are available for the consumers. Companies should ensure their safety and protect them should any unfortunate COVID-19 related event befall them.  

We must understand, this pandemic has affected everyone on a personal level. The need of the hour is to work collectively towards adding value to the overall societal effort to combat the impact of the virus. We must be committed towards the human beings around us and be consistent towards ensuring their well-being at this point of time. 

 
 (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)