Understanding social work in the post COVID-19 scenario
It is one of life’s greatest accomplishments to be able to provide a helping hand to those who need it. Throughout my entire life, my parents have shown me how important it is to be able to do that. In the first phase of my life, it was by providing children in orphanages with food and something new annually, on my birthday. In high school, it was by empowering and enabling me to support a campaign to help change the mindset of society regarding issues of menstrual hygiene and women’s health. Finally, in college it was by encouraging me to work with a NGO that works with underprivileged children and adults alike and organises sports days, cultural events and a free medical camp amongst other initiatives. The one thing that remained a constant in all three instances was the ability of this act to bring a smile not just on the faces of those we were helping but also providing us with an immeasurable amount of happiness when we saw those very smiles.
For most of us, 2020 has been the most turbulent and uncertain year of our lives, and within the span of a few months our idea of normal has been turned upside down. Not too long ago, when we saw someone wearing a mask we would stop and think twice but now mask-adorned faces are all part of the new normal. This pandemic has not stopped dead in its tracks, with more active cases being reported daily on a global scale, this is only the tip of the iceberg. During these times, while most media outlets have been ensuring that the supply of information regarding this evolving situation remains continuous, other media platforms have found a way to balance the grim news with some bits of happiness. We have heard about how citizens of various localities have come together and helped bring groceries to the elderly who cannot leave their homes, we have heard about news clippings of individuals and organisations arranging for food and shelter for various homeless people and migrant workers who have lost their jobs in the face of this pandemic. Furthermore, these reports are not just concentrated to a certain part of the world but has now become a matter of daily news, globally. People have realised the importance of coming together in these uncertain times and have found solace in lending a helping hand to those who need it the most.
Recently, I came across a story on my Instagram page which talked about an individual who was collecting funds on a national scale to help fund a campaign which was dedicated to providing rations for families of migrant workers who are stuck in cities with no source of income and no way to provide for their families. This campaign is not unique. All over the country there are thousands of NGOs that are launching fundraiser campaigns to collect donations to feed these workers. These organisations have laid the foundation for the country to unite and help these individuals. We have come to realise that even the smallest act can have a huge impact on someone’s life, so take this opportunity to find a campaign to donate to. In times like these, even the smallest contribution can go a long way.
During troubling situations like these, the impact that the seemingly smallest of actions have is particularly evident. It is not necessary for a well funded organization to be the sole perpetrator of change. You now, as an individual, have the unique ability to be a part of this change while sitting in your homes. It is nearly impossible to predict what to expect in the aftermath of this pandemic, but one thing remains certain, the outlook on social work will change. The aftermath of this virus demands more than what the organizations alone are capable of providing. It is upto us as individuals to do our part for our immediate communities and those around us in need of help, so put on your best running shoes and get ready to go the extra mile, because the time for thinking about doing is long gone, Now is the time for action.
Comments