The threat posed by COVID-19 has hit us all. Even if we have not been directly affected, we live in the shadow of the pandemic consequences. In these difficult moments, solidarity must be our strength. Consequently, we must not forget the most vulnerable. As we know, COVID-19 is precisely for the most vulnerable the most cruel - the elderly or the sick are at great risk of acute disease and often fatal complications.
In Poland, unfortunately, Nursing Homes and other similar care institutions are on the front line of the fight against COVID-19. Across the country, their staff are making heroic efforts to ensure the safety and dignity of their residents. Faced with acute shortages of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) - masks, overalls, visors, disinfectants - medical staff and social workers are risking their own lives to help people who must not be left alone. Lacking these protective measures, COVID-19 also spreads aggressively among vulnerable patients and residents.
Nursing homes are underfunded in Poland even in normal times. In the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, they cannot cope with the challenge without help. That is why the Institute for Patients' Rights and Health Education Foundation, together with the Order Serving the Sick - the Camillian Fathers - decided to organise a fundraiser to purchase Personal Protective Equipment for the staff and wards.
Details of the action can be found in the annexes below.