Rapid Response to COVID-19 by SCAD

Addressing COVID-19 in Tamil Nadu:

As the world grappled with the COVID-19 pandemic, Tamil Nadu saw a decline in daily cases, with numbers falling below 2,000. Stringent measures, including social distancing, mask-wearing, and hygiene practices, were put in place to combat the virus.

Preparing for the Third Wave:

While the state breathed a sigh of relief, the Tamil Nadu government sounded a cautious note, warning of a potential third wave, with children at the forefront of vulnerability. In preparation, all 37 districts in Tamil Nadu equipped themselves with a minimum of 25 neonatal beds and 100 pediatric beds each. Health authorities expressed confidence in the state’s readiness to face any potential third wave.

SCAD’s Human-Centric Response:

As an organization deeply committed to human welfare, SCAD played a pivotal role in safeguarding communities:

Awareness Programs: SCAD conducted extensive awareness programs, educating communities on the significance of social distancing, mask-wearing, and personal hygiene to curb the virus’s spread.

Healthcare Support: SCAD provided healthcare support by tapping into expertise from Allopathy, Siddha, and Naturopathy. Educational institutions were transformed into quarantine centers, and the SCAD Medical Centre became a treatment facility.

Addressing Secondary Impacts: Recognizing that COVID-19 disrupted children’s overall development, SCAD took measures to nurture their growth. UNESCO’s prediction of a decline in global learning proficiency due to school closures prompted our efforts.

Supporting Children’s Development:

Frontline workers and COVID-19 warriors from SCAD, with limited transportation resources, reached out to every child, offering essential support. Counseling was extended to children and their families to alleviate anxiety and restore hope amid the pandemic’s challenges, contributing to their emotional well-being. Tuition sessions were organized to address learning gaps, motivate students towards their goals, and clear doubts in their subjects, promoting their mental development. The recent announcement by the state government promoting students from classes 1st to 11th came as a pleasant surprise to students and teachers alike.

Collaboration and Beneficiaries:

In Phase 1 of our response efforts, SCAD collaborated with friends and partners to provide support to various vulnerable groups:

Gypsy Families: We assisted 258 gypsy families, including those without ration cards, widows, abandoned individuals, differently-abled individuals, and the elderly.

Leprosy-Affected Families: Support was extended to 49 families affected by leprosy.

Families with Special Children: 24 families with children who have special needs received assistance.

Orphan/Semi-Orphan Children: 5 families with orphaned or semi-orphaned children were assisted.

Elderly: Support was provided to 99 elderly individuals who had been abandoned by their family members.

During the first wave of the pandemic, your tremendous support had a lasting impact on the lives of marginalized and less privileged individuals. Recognizing the intensity of the second wave and the need to reach the unreached, SCAD acted promptly to provide assistance to those in need, ensuring that no one was left behind.

SCAD remains dedicated to its mission of promoting the well-being and development of communities, especially in times of crisis. We continue to prioritize education, healthcare, and holistic support, making a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.