The Covid-19 pandemic will have a long-term impact on our movement and the world in general. During this crisis period, Emmaus International wants to help you understand what life is like for groups right now, the difficulties they face and community life which, despite all odds, is continuing. This includes initiatives to support the most excluded which are maintained, or put in place, to not lose sight of why we exist: to serve first those who suffer most.
>> Find our general position on the current crisis
Reports from the field!
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Although work is grinding to a halt in many countries, the Emmaus groups are mobilised and life goes on in the communities. They continue to be outward looking and have not forgotten those who suffer most. Initiatives are being set up or maintained around the world to guarantee the solidarity of the Emmaus movement. Here are some examples of what is happening in the four corners of the world:
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Emmaus Oseyla (Ukraine)
Despite closing its shops, and the loss of its revenue, the Emmaus Oseyla community has kept up its solidarity work to help those living on the streets. Thanks to their savings and donations of food from the local population, companions organise food distribution to the homeless around the city. Essential work to help the most disadvantaged. |
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Emmaus du Cher (France)
Just over a week ago, companions from Emmaüs du Cher discovered 6 crates of FFP2 masks in their warehouse, in other words 40,000 masks! The elastic was damaged but the masks are still usable. “When the firemen came to get them they couldn’t believe their eyes!”, says Jean Rousseau, the new Chair of this community. This act of solidarity will provide temporary relief to healthcare professionals who are working around the clock. |
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Florence Home Foundation (India)
In its centre located in Killai, in the south of India, the Florence Home Foundation group is working to produce organic cotton protective masks. In a few days, they had already produced 1,000 and distributed 500 of these free-of-charge to the poor rural population, the elderly and children.
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Emmaus Burzaco (Argentina)
Emmaus Burzaco responded to the appeal for donations to healthcare professionals at the Lucio Meléndez hospital. The companions selected and sent: 307 caps, 132 scrubs, 17 gowns, 50 surgical boots and sleeves. A great effort of collective solidarity!
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Pag-la-Yiri (Burkina Faso)
Radio Palabre, the Pag-la-Yiri group’s community radio station has been informing and raising awareness among the public since its origins. Today its news bulletins are dominated by information on coronavirus. Jean-Pierre Boussim, the radio’s director, tells us more: “We often invite health specialists to the station so they can provide correct information to the public. We prefer to use our interactive programmes for this, so that listeners can ask our guests questions. We’ve also broadcasted live phone calls to our compatriots living in Europe, particularly in Italy, to hear their news.” |
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