ICRF distributes reusable face masks

TDT | Manama

The Indian Community Relief Fund (ICRF), working under the patronage of the Embassy of India in Bahrain, has been reaching out to distressed members in the community in many different ways, ever since it launched its special initiatives to help combat the coronavirus (COVID-19).

These initiatives include the distribution of face masks and informative flyers, the publishing of videos on how to protect one’s self from COVID-19, the provision of food support kits to the needy, and providing support for mental well-being.

More than 1,000 reusable face masks were distributed at various locations in Manama, Salmabad, and Tubli, to name a few. This distribution was inaugurated by ICRF general secretary John Philip.

The ICRF intends to give out another 10,000 reusable face masks during the coming weeks, with the help of the Indian Embassy. Face masks distribution is taking place systematically under the leadership of Suresh Babu, with the support of Chemban Jalal, Salim KT, Sivakumar, Aneesh Sreedharan, Javad Pasha, Pavithran Neeleswaram, Hemalatha, and Spandana.

Flyers with disease-exposure prevention instructions were produced with the support of the Embassy. These were made in different Indian languages and they have been distributed across the Kingdom, including at various labor camps.

There are plans to distribute more than 20,000 flyers soon. Videos in different languages were promoted through various social media platforms, while more than 4,000 antibacterial soaps have been given out in labor camps.

Furthermore, ICRF members also support Bahrain’s community police in making public announcements in various languages on the importance of wearing face masks and informing people on other measures to curb the spread of COVID-19, such as staying at home.

Meanwhile, following a rise in cases of emotional distress and depression in the past few weeks, mental well-being posters with numbers to reach ICRF specialist teams have appeared in various media. A team led by Dr. Babu Ramachandran handles calls from people on distress and provides advice on mental well-being. For more information or support, call 39224482 or 39653007.