As we venture deeper into this pandemic of COVID-19, there is no doubt that more questions and issues will arise. Of recent, I have noticed the media and the authorities urging persons to “stay home” or “stay inside”. Yes, we should do that. Social distancing is very important at this point to protect ourselves and others around us and to also stop the overall increase of infected persons in Guyana. However, “stay at home”, is an ironic phrase to use to ALL Guyanese, when many are without an actual home. I say that to now say that more than ever now, the people of our country need our social help.

If you had asked me before this pandemic, “How is housing related to health?” I probably would’ve had to ponder a bit on it before I answered (if I could answer the question). If you ask me that question now, I would be rambling on and on due to my experience thus far. Before COVID-19, I doubt we’d reflect on how housing is important with health and how it can affect our physical health. Currently, as you can tell, our homes are individually considered the safest places to dwell in. But, we need to ask ourselves; what happens when a person does not have a home to live in? What happens when the sole breadwinner is laid off for months due to a company shutdown? Or when a family can barely afford essentials, much less protective gear and recommended vitamins/food supplies?

“The poor man” is left to fend for themselves unless those who are in positions to help; help. I am calling on all NGOs and government offices to do their part in giving back to the less fortunate. Utilise shelters to house these persons, reallocate funding for initial postponed 2020 projects in aiding for the less fortunate or even advocate for the rights of these persons. While we cannot give all the homeless a house, all the destitute money and all the low-income household vouchers; we can give them the essentials they’ll need during this tough time. However, hygiene and health are of the utmost importance. Hence, vitamins, water supply, preserved food items, hand sanitisers and face masks are all items we can give to those in need. These persons are at risk due to their situations. These are the people who need our help and attention, these are the people who are most likely to contract this virus.

This is no longer a social issue, it is EVERYBODY’S issue. Homelessness and poverty now transcend social protection into public security and health. It should be one of our main priorities right now as we battle against the infamous COVID-19. Nobody should be deemed second class citizens and I am here to speak up for those who do not have a platform or even the ability to share their voices. If you are a true humanitarian and helper, you’d find it in your hearts to reach out (not physically) and find a way to give back. Advocacy without action has little to no effect. You can sit behind a laptop and post all day but it can only do so much for persons.

If it was us who was without a home or necessities, we’d look at life differently and truly understand the struggles of the minorities. With all of that said, I do hope that as you reflect on this topic, you also think of ways on how you can also lend a helping hand. Lastly, I will leave you with a question to answer for yourself; “Who are we as human beings if we ignore the suffering of others?” Will you ignore it? Will you ignore their suffering?