Even in times such this, there are reasons to hope for a brighter future. The initiatives taken by the youth of this country to help poor people pull through this crisis give us hope. Throughout the nation, young people, some working individually, and others through various organizations, have stepped up to help families that have been affected by the lockdown. Some have been providing cooked food, daily essentials, baby food, while others have been raising awareness on health and safety protocols.
When fear and anxiety about the future has become such a regular part of our lives, a simple helping hand can make a world of difference. Only solidarity will get us through this crisis. While social distancing is key to stopping the spread of Covid-19, it is important for us to be together in spirit. No single thing will bring an end to the suffering, but our combined effort will, and it is good to see the youth stepping up to take the lead, without being told to do so.
Again and again, whenever lockdowns have been discussed, the question has been asked: What about the poor? The problem is, this assumes it is up to the poor to take care of themselves when an unprecedented crisis is ravaging the nation. Yes, we need lockdowns, but that also means we have a responsibility to make sure people do not suffer even more from hunger.
Social protection programs can do this, and while it is nice to see the youth do what they can, we really hope to see more from the government level. If we are truly digging our way out of least-developed status, we must ensure that no one starves or falls into crippling poverty as soon as a crisis hits.
