Episcopal Relief & Development continues to support partners responding to the COVID-19 pandemic in Cuba, Jordan, Haiti, Madagascar, Myanmar, Nepal and Peru.

“Our partners are remaining vigilant in identifying ways to walk alongside communities, particularly in light of new variants such as Omicron,” said Nagulan Nesiah, Senior Program Officer, Episcopal Relief & Development.

In Madagascar, the organization is partnering with Mission Anglicane on programs to expand on its initial COVID-19 response in order to build long-term resiliency and lasting change. The Church is acting as a beacon of light, sharing key information about the coronavirus and helping to stop the spread of misinformation about vaccines. Through its first COVID-19 response project, the six dioceses of Madagascar learned how building community and working together can create sustainable results.

For this second phase of response, all six dioceses are using an asset-based approach to bring skills and knowledge together to enable communities to increase their income and savings, which will help these communities face future challenges without needing to look for outside assistance.

Local community leaders will be equipping laborers with skills to build new businesses to replenish lost income. The dioceses are also providing financial support to teachers who are not being paid and parents who need help with school fees as a result of the pandemic. This will support the education of the next generation and support long-term sustainability in the community. Additionally, Mission Anglicane is building wells in two villages in southern Madagascar to provide clean water and help reduce the spread of the virus through proper sanitation.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted inequalities and the need to build resiliency,” continued Nesiah. “Episcopal Relief & Development continues to support our partners as they identify new ways to help their communities bounce back.”

Learn more about Episcopal Relief & Development’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This work is supported by generous grants from Trinity Church Wall Street and other donors.