By Bejay Browne.
Social media is awash with comments highlighting the need to look out for our neighbours and in particular those that live alone, are vulnerable or elderly, in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.
“My neighbour who is in his 80s and lives alone after his wife died was still going to the supermarket daily and doing his other errands and wasn’t aware of the new restrictions in force,” Maria, a Facebook user in Paphos posted on a site.
Currently, until April 13, (at the time of going to press, but these restrictions may be extended: please check the government website www.pio.gov.cy/coronavirus/en/ for the latest coronavirus updates) anyone going outdoors (only once a day permitted) must either fill out a printed form explaining the reason, (only for those aged 65 and over) or send an SMS to authorities. Everyone must also carry a form of identification at all times when outside – an ID or a passport.
Maria explained everything to her neighbour, printed him forms to use. In answer to trolls that criticised her for approaching an elderly man when restrictions are in place, she noted that help for the vulnerable or elderly is imperative and that she kept a safe distance, wore gloves and also gave him some hand sanitizer.
Social media is also burgeoning with groups and individuals wanting to help each other as communities come together to offer help and support, including telephone chats to those that need it, as they remain at home.
One Facebook group in particular that is gaining momentum is: Cyprus Helpers COVID-19.
“After seeing many kind offers concerning those who are or may be (in the coming weeks) in need due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the group has been established to become a focal point across Cyprus for everyone, business and other groups to post what they can offer, to whom and where and also to ask for help,” the page notes.
It is awash with people offering to help and sharing stories of helping those in need, including the elderly.
The group has regional coordinators across the island and Tracy Bailey, who is responsible for Paphos posted: “We are seeing posted in various places about elderly persons with no family here who don’t use Facebook. If you have somebody who you think may fit into this category living near you please make them aware of the legislation of the lockdown. We can arrange to obtain printed forms for them or to assist in any other way possible.”
Also involved with the new group is Chalkies in Coral Bay, who are providing a meals service to those in need, this is free to those that can’t afford. Donation of food items is also welcome, as well as help with deliveries.
Chalkies ask that only those who are in need use this service, “so we can help those in genuine need and keep it going”.
Frydays are now starting to assist also with cooking.
All those involved are following social distancing and the latest coronavirus regulations.
For more: Cyprus Helpers COVID-19 on Facebook
