COVID-19 Emergency Response Project of DFBY Foundation
Introduction
The COVID-19 pandemic presented an unprecedented challenge for communities around the world, including those in rural Bangladesh. Recognizing the critical need for immediate action, Donate for Bhurungamari Youth Foundation (DFBY Foundation) launched a comprehensive COVID-19 Emergency Response Project. This initiative aimed to provide essential healthcare services and support to those affected by the novel coronavirus, ensuring that even the most vulnerable families received the care and assistance they needed.
Project Overview
The COVID-19 Emergency Response Project was a large-scale effort coordinated in direct collaboration with the Upazila Administration, Upazila Health Department, and the Police. The project was supported by the Care & Shine Foundation, USA, which supplied emergency medical supplies to our volunteers. Together, we were able to reach over 10,000 families, providing them with crucial healthcare services, emergency medicine, and food supplies.
Objectives
- Emergency Healthcare Services: Deliver essential medical care to patients contaminated by COVID-19 and their families.
- Emergency Medicine and Healthcare Supplies: Provide necessary medical supplies to affected individuals and vulnerable families.
- Coordination with Authorities: Work closely with local authorities to streamline the delivery of aid and ensure comprehensive coverage.
- Volunteer Mobilization and Training: Equip volunteers with the necessary training and protective gear to safely assist in the pandemic response.
- Vaccination Support: Assist in the management and administration of COVID-19 vaccinations in rural areas.
Implementation
Emergency Healthcare Services
During the height of the pandemic, DFBY Foundation focused on providing emergency healthcare facilities to those infected with COVID-19. We set up temporary healthcare centers in coordination with the Upazila Health Department, ensuring that patients had access to medical care, oxygen, and other necessary treatments. Our efforts were critical in alleviating the pressure on existing healthcare facilities, which were overwhelmed by the surge in cases.
Distribution of Emergency Supplies
In partnership with the Care & Shine Foundation, USA, we distributed emergency medical supplies, including personal protective equipment (PPE), sanitizers, masks, and gloves, to our volunteers and healthcare workers. These supplies were essential in protecting those on the front lines and preventing the spread of the virus.
Support to Vulnerable Families
Recognizing the economic hardships brought about by the pandemic, DFBY Foundation provided food supplies and essential items to vulnerable families in rural areas. This support was crucial for families who had lost their income sources due to lockdowns and other restrictions.
Collaboration with Authorities
Our close collaboration with the Upazila Administration, Upazila Health Department, and the Police was instrumental in the success of the project. These partnerships allowed us to effectively coordinate our efforts, ensuring that resources were distributed efficiently and that our actions were aligned with broader public health strategies.
Volunteer Mobilization and Training
Over 700 volunteers played a pivotal role in our COVID-19 response. These volunteers were trained in standard hygiene measures and equipped with PPE to safely engage with contaminated patients. Their tireless efforts, often working around the clock, were fundamental to the success of our emergency response.
Vaccination Support
As vaccines became available, DFBY Foundation shifted its focus to supporting the Upazila Health Department in administering COVID-19 vaccines. Our volunteers were actively involved in the management of vaccination programs, assisting with logistics, crowd control, and public awareness campaigns to encourage vaccination.
Health Campaigns
In addition to our emergency response, we conducted numerous health campaigns to provide healthcare services to rural populations. These campaigns focused on educating the community about COVID-19, preventive measures, and the importance of vaccination. By raising awareness and providing accurate information, we helped to dispel myths and reduce vaccine hesitancy.
Success Stories
A True Story of Courage and Dedication: The COVID-19 Success Story of DFBY Foundation
In the global COVID-19 pandemic, countless individuals and teams fought bravely between life and death. Among them was a dedicated team from the DFBY Foundation, whose extraordinary efforts saved lives and brought hope to a desperate community. This is their true story, told in a narrative form to capture the essence of their heroic journey.
The Call for Help
On May 11, 2020, around 1 PM, Tarik Bhai (cousin of Ashikur Rahman), some other brothers, and Ashikur Rahman were sitting by the pond in front of Bhurungamari Government College when a call came in. It was Ashraful’s aunt, informing them that Ashraful’s elder sister, Jonita, was experiencing severe labor pains. Ashraful had tested positive for COVID-19 two days earlier, and his family, residing in the 8th ward of Pathardubi Union, was in home isolation. Ashik immediately contacted Dr. ASM Sayem, the Upazila Health and Family Planning Officer and head of the Upazila Health Department, and explained the situation. He instructed Asad Bhai, the health worker at South Pathardubi Community Clinic, to look into the matter.
The Urgent Situation
By 3:45 PM, Ashraful’s aunt called again, saying Jonita’s pain had worsened significantly. Ashik (Ashikur Rahman) was on his way home but turned around and headed to the health complex. Upon arrival, he found that Dr. Sayem was out on urgent business, but managed to contact him and inform him of the situation. Meanwhile, Asad Bhai had tried to get local help for the delivery, but no one was willing to assist due to the family’s COVID-19 status.
A Call to Duty
Ashik then called Roksana Moni, a BSc nursing graduate from Rangpur Prime Medical College with 3-4 years of experience. Moni agreed to help but said her family wouldn’t allow her due to the risk of infection. Ashik informed Dr. Sayem, who notified the Bhurungamari OC (Officer In-Charge), Mr. Atiar Rahman. The OC assigned two police officers to accompany the team.
Preparing for the Mission
After putting on PPE, Ashik met Dr. Sayem in front of the police station, where he provided essential items for the delivery. The team headed towards Thanaghat, with Moni and the police officers joining them. Moni wore two sets of PPE for maximum protection. Upon arriving, they found that Jonita’s family had brought her to the clinic on a horse cart, as no rickshaw or auto driver was willing to transport her due to fear of infection.
The Delivery Process
The South Pathardubi Community Clinic, although new and not fully operational, became their makeshift delivery room. Moni and Jonita’s mother worked tirelessly to manage the delivery, while the rest of the team, including volunteers from “Donate for Bhurungamari Youth Foundation (DFBY Foundation),” supported them. Dr. Sayem was in constant contact, ready to assist if an emergency cesarean section was needed.
Overcoming Challenges
At midnight, Jonita’s condition became critical. She was too weak to push due to fasting and severe labor pain. Dr. Sayem prepared an emergency team for a cesarean section, but the team couldn’t find transportation to move Jonita. They had no choice but to proceed with the delivery at the clinic. Moni, exhausted but determined, used all her skills to manage the situation.
A Miraculous Outcome
At 3:27 AM, Moni successfully delivered a beautiful baby. The joy and relief felt by the team were indescribable. Moni’s hard work and dedication had paid off. They immediately informed Jonita’s family and the authorities. Dr. Sayem and the OC congratulated them on their success. Moni, despite her exhaustion, had accomplished something extraordinary.
The Aftermath
In the morning, the police escorted Jonita and her baby home. Moni returned home with the team, bringing food and supplies. Her family, initially worried, was relieved and grateful. Jonita’s family brought the team breakfast, and Moni’s mother, with tears in her eyes, thanked them and prayed for their safety.
Reflection and Gratitude
This incredible experience highlighted the power of will and dedication. The unwavering support from DFBY Foundation team, volunteers, doctors, and police officers made this success possible. Moni’s bravery and skill, along with the collective efforts of everyone involved, brought a family back from the brink of tragedy.
This true story is a testament to the courage and resilience of DFBY Foundation team during the COVID-19 pandemic. It stands as an inspiring example of what can be achieved when people come together to support each other in times of crisis. DFBY Foundation’s COVID-19 Emergency Response Project was not just about providing healthcare services; it was about saving lives and restoring hope.
The heroic efforts of Moni, Asad Bhai, and all the volunteers involved in this mission are a reminder that even in the darkest times, humanity can shine through. This moment will remain unforgettable, a beacon of hope and courage in the face of adversity.
For his remarkable efforts during this challenging time, Ashikur Rahman received the prestigious “Sheikh Hasina Youth Volunteer Award 2020.” This accolade is a testament to the extraordinary dedication and impact of DFBY Foundation’s COVID-19 response efforts.
Challenges Faced
The COVID-19 Emergency Response Project was not without its challenges. Some of the key obstacles we faced included:
- Supply Chain Disruptions: The global demand for medical supplies created shortages and delays, making it difficult to secure the necessary equipment and medicines.
- Logistical Issues: Transporting supplies and setting up temporary healthcare facilities in remote areas required meticulous planning and coordination.
- Volunteer Safety: Ensuring the safety of our volunteers was a top priority, necessitating comprehensive training and constant monitoring of PPE supplies.
- Misinformation and Vaccine Hesitancy: Combatting misinformation about COVID-19 and vaccines was a significant challenge, requiring persistent community engagement and education efforts.
Impact Assessment
The success of the COVID-19 Emergency Response Project is reflected in the tangible benefits it provided to the community. Key achievements include:
- Healthcare Services: Provided emergency healthcare to over 10,000 families, significantly reducing the burden on local health facilities.
- Volunteer Engagement: Mobilized and trained over 700 volunteers, equipping them with the skills and resources to safely assist in the pandemic response.
- Vaccination Support: Played a crucial role in the administration of COVID-19 vaccines, contributing to increased vaccination rates in rural areas.
- Community Education: Conducted extensive health campaigns, educating thousands about COVID-19 prevention and the importance of vaccination.
- Conclusion
The COVID-19 Emergency Response Project of DFBY Foundation stands as a testament to the power of community action and collaboration in times of crisis. Our work during the pandemic not only provided immediate relief but also laid the groundwork for a more resilient healthcare infrastructure in rural Bangladesh. The unwavering support of our partners, volunteers, and the community was instrumental in the success of this noble cause.
As we look to the future, DFBY Foundation remains committed to continuing its mission of safeguarding and empowering communities. The lessons learned and the relationships built during this project will inform and strengthen our efforts in addressing future challenges.
Call to Action
The success of the COVID-19 Emergency Response Project was made possible by the generosity and dedication of individuals and organizations committed to making a difference. We invite you to join us in our ongoing mission to build a stronger, healthier, and more resilient community. Your support, whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading awareness, can help us continue to provide critical healthcare services and support to those in need.
Together, we can ensure that the legacy of our COVID-19 response endures and that our communities are better prepared for any future challenges. Invest in change—support DFBY Foundation today!
For more information on how you can get involved, please visit our website or contact us directly. Your contribution, no matter the size, makes a real difference.