C19 Relief Through Project ‘UTTHAN’
Overview
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on the most vulnerable populations, pushing many deeper into poverty and ill-health. Recognizing this, Gramin Adivasi Samaj Vikas Sansthan (GASVS) launched Project ‘UTTHAN’ to provide critical relief and support to those most affected, especially individuals living with mental illness (PLwMI) and persons with disabilities (PwDs).
With the financial support of the Paul Hamlyn Foundation (PHF), GASVS provided immediate medical assistance to 133 persons living with mental illness in the Sausar block. Collaborating with GOONJ, Reliance Foundation, MISEREOR, and JIVDAYA Foundation, we distributed 2,660 food kits through the coordinated efforts of local volunteers and village-level Disabled People’s Organizations (DPOs) and caregiver groups in Sausar, Pandhurna and Sukma. In the Pandhurna block, Project ‘UTTHAN’ facilitated online counselling sessions via proactive calls, operated a mental health helpline, and distributed nutrition kits and personal protective equipment (PPE). Additionally, we provided 64 PLwMI/PwDs with bus passes offering a 50% travel concession, enhancing their mobility and access to essential services.
GASVS has been proactive in offering teleconsultations and counselling on loss and grief. We have conducted mental health awareness programs, provided self-help tools to manage anxiety, and used social media platforms to disseminate information about COVID-19 safety protocols. This comprehensive approach has encouraged our beneficiaries to wear masks and maintain social distancing, helping to curb the spread of the virus.
Other Campaigns
Surakshit Dada-Dadi; Nana-Nani Abhiyan
Launched by NITI Aayog, this campaign focuses on the well-being of senior citizens during the C19 pandemic. GASVS, in collaboration with the social welfare department and district administration in Sukma district, mobilized over 100 volunteers to contact approximately 10,000 senior citizens. They provided essential information on C19, fulfilled requirements such as medicines and ration, and addressed issues related to ration cards, benefiting 7,750 senior citizens.
Surakshit Tum – Surakshit Hum
In response to the C19 pandemic, NITI Aayog’s ‘Surakshit Tum; Surakshit Hum’ campaign supports home-care for asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic patients in 112 aspirational districts. GASVS, partnering with local leaders and district administration, trained 100 volunteers in Chhattisgarh to provide home-care support, educate caretakers on C19 protocols, offer psychosocial support, and update the administration on patient statuses. This initiative addresses immediate needs and provides long-term support to the most impoverished communities.
Implementation and Impact
GASVS’s strategic approach in implementing these programs demonstrates our commitment to addressing the immediate and long-term needs of the most vulnerable populations. By collaborating with various stakeholders and leveraging local resources, we ensure sustainable and impactful interventions that improve the lives of those we serve. Our efforts in capacity building, health awareness, financial literacy, and emergency support reflect our dedication to creating a more inclusive and resilient society.
GASVS’s strategic approach in implementing these programs demonstrates our commitment to addressing the immediate and long-term needs of the most vulnerable populations. By collaborating with various stakeholders and leveraging local resources, we ensure sustainable and impactful interventions that improve the lives of those we serve. Our efforts in capacity building, health awareness, financial literacy, and emergency support reflect our dedication to creating a more inclusive and resilient society.
GASVS’s strategic approach in implementing these programs demonstrates our commitment to addressing the immediate and long-term needs of the most vulnerable populations. By collaborating with various stakeholders and leveraging local resources, we ensure sustainable and impactful interventions that improve the lives of those we serve. Our efforts in capacity building, health awareness, financial literacy, and emergency support reflect our dedication to creating a more inclusive and resilient society.