By MN Reporter

As the sudden and unexpected effects of COVID-19 unfold around the world, many have found themselves scrambling in the face of unanticipated hardship.

In Obama village of Awendo sub-county, Migori, as people are laid off, losing childcare and self-isolating on top of the health concerns of the pandemic, many have come together (while social distancing) to streamline access to services and help, be it an offer of a drop-off of goods or a request for assistance of some kind.

According to Migori county health CEC member Isca Oluoch who is also from Obama village, Obama-Adel Development Forum intents to reach those most at risk especially elderly and vulnerable populations in both village as well as those significantly hit by the burden of the sweeping changes of the economy.

The group encourages using COVID-19 “coming together” to reach out to over 140 community members who may not be having food or basic need.

She said the actiit was a community response to the needs of the people since majority are starving.

Mrs. Oluoch said they are looking for sustainable measures like compassionate agriculture which includes kitchen gardening, poultry farming among others which can help the community access to food.

Obama-Adel development forum secretary Mr. Jared Ouma Ogutu said the nonpolitical forum aims at providing platform for social needs and welfare o the two villages thus coming together to solicit funds for members was a recommendable task.

Ogutu said that theren is an increase in demand asking well wishes and villagers in different towns to come in.

He said the increasing need comes from a combination of factors sparked by the pandemic as majority of their supporting kind have been laid off.

He said the idea is to support elderly people, and people with a disability or long-term health condition such as cancer, diabetes and chronic lung disease.