COVID-19 resulted in hardship around the world. Nepalis relying on remittances from abroad and subsistent farming, the epidemic spelled disaster. With the economy and transportation coming to a halt, the people of Syangja suffered. With limited access to remote areas for goods and services, people relied on government relief packages to fulfill their needs. Relief packages were few and far between. With limited distribution, many families worried about how they were going to survive.
Bhaisigauda, Syangja, nestled high on top of a hill south of Putalibazar, could see the district capital below, what it couldn’t see was the help it needed.
Grow, a nonprofit based in the US, worked with Bal Kumar Gurung from Bhaisigauda, to coordinate a food relief program for at-risk families. With quick action, in less than a week, the program was able to distribute food supplies to 47 families. The families received packages containing a month’s worth of goods. With goods totaling 400Kg rice, 50L oil, 100Kg salt, 100Kg lentils, and 50 pcs of soap.
Grow, with the slogan ‘Together We Can,’ worked closely with Mr. Gurung, to ensure marginalized communities and families in need received food packages. The recipients’ breakdown included 164 total people and included: 83 women, eight under the age of five, and 73 men. All recipients were from priority group one or two, based on the United Nations classification of people in Nepal, which means that they are from marginalized communities, women, LGBTIQ+, or persons with disabilities.
Bal Kumar Gurung and Grow’s effort was conducted in early July before the lockdown ended, easing many lives. Unfortunately, cases are once again on the rise in Nepal. The increase in cases has resulted in another lockdown in Syangja. The lockdown will create hardships for the people of Bhaisigauda once again, threatening the food security of at-risk communities.
UNDP’s Rapid Assessment of Socio Economic Impact of COVID19 in Nepal reported that 31.5% of all workers had lost their jobs during the epidemic, and 74% did not receive payments during the first lockdown. The rise in unemployment highlights the threat of resuming lockdown in Nepal.
With a high risk of food insecurity, Grow, and Bal Kumar Gurung will continue to assess the situation in Bhaisigauda. As assessments of the village continue, Grow, and Mr. Gurung will be ready to provide further support to individuals.
