HO CHI MINH CITY (UCAN): Caritas workers and volunteers in the Archdiocese of Ho Chi Minh City have been providing emergency aid for people in need, especially the homeless in isolated and quarantine places as Covid-19 coronavirus [SARS-CoV-2] cases rise in a fourth wave.
They visit and offer rice, instant noodles and facemasks to factory workers and people with physical disabilities in Hoc Mon deanery. Collectors of used items and lottery ticket sellers have been badly affected by the pandemic.
Caritas launched a love-spreading programme that attracts many benefactors who have donated food to the poor.
From July 2 to 7, Cartitas provided 10 tonnes of rice, 1,000 duck eggs and 150 million dong ($50,777) for people affected by Covid-19.
They also received 3.5 tonnes of vegetables from parishes and benefactors in Lam Dong and Binh Duong provinces.
Caritas called on people to donate as much as they can to share with people in need and ensure that no one is left behind during the pandemic.
On July 7, Nguyen Thanh Phong, chairperson of the People’s Committee of Ho Chi Minh City, imposed social distancing measures for 15 days starting July 9.
Phong called it “a real war” and that the government accepts the loss of short-term benefits to ensure long-term development.
He said local authorities are implementing contact tracing, tests and health declarations, and isolating areas with Covid-19 infections and quarantine patients. Twenty-two groups with 10-30 members each are tracking down sources of infection, while quarantine centres will handle medical treatment for 10,000 to 20,000 people.
People were asked to stay indoors unless necessary, families and communities are to isolate from one another and gatherings of two people in public places will be barred. People must wear facemasks, wash hands with disinfectants and keep themselves two metres apart when they go out.
Public transport, including ride-hailing services, were halted, while flights and trains to and from the city have been restricted or suspended. The city’s three wholesale markets and all traditional markets were also closed.
All religious activities and gatherings at more than 200 churches and chapels have been suspended since May 22 by the Archdiocese of Ho Chi Minh City [Sunday Examiner, May 30].
Van Thi Hoai Thuong, from the Dong Cam home for 20 disabled people in Hoc Mon district, said the area has been under quarantine and they had become jobless. Most usually sell lottery tickets on the streets or make cakes for a living.
“We are deeply grateful to Caritas workers and sisters for giving us generous basic food that helps us survive the hard time,” Van said.
On July 6, Ho Chi Minh City’s health department reported 7,385 locally transmitted infections including 45 deaths since the new outbreak occurred on April 27. During the 24 hours from July 6-7, the city confirmed 1,693 new cases, the highest daily number since last year.
