COVID-19 Response
Dear Hoops 4 Hope Family,
Never has the concept of Ubuntu, “I am because we are” been more important. In the days and weeks going forward, combatting the COVID-19 virus will require all of us to work together.
This global virus is now reaching our communities across Africa. Hoops 4 Hope has 25 years of experience in teaching healthy habits through sport, addressing HIV and Cholera prevention in high-density, disadvantaged neighborhoods, so we are ready to respond to this unprecedented challenge. I would like to bring you up to date on what Hoops 4 Hope is doing:
All programs have been cancelled for the foreseeable future, so we are actively educating our communities, encouraging everyone to follow the rules for social distancing, practice kindness and consideration to all.
- H4H staff and community coordinators are distributing vital information to their communities via WhatsApp – the most widely used form of communication on their mobile phones..
- We have designed an easy-to-understand pamphlet and poster series to help educate everyone on how best to stop the spread of the virus, identify the signs and symptoms, and what to do if they get sick.
- We are working to create simple PSA’s on the importance of hand-washing and social distancing which will be sent via WhatsApp to kids and their families in a number of local languages.
- We are also developing new ways to share our curriculum virtually, so we may positively impact our global community to stay safe, and make the right choices in the face of this emergency.
At this time where hugs and hi-fives are so needed but verboten, we must continue to check in with loved ones, creating laughter whenever possible, as it truly is the best medicine and a symbol of hope. Please share a smile, food or a helping hand to a neighbor, as we know that empathy is also contagious. Please stay safe and well.
Please watch our recent feature on the BBC and we hope it brings a smile to your face.
With Ubuntu,
Mark Crandall
Founder & CEO, Hoops 4 Hope
