India’s total number of COVID-19 cases has dramatically risen to over 18 million as of April 29, with more than 300,000 cases reported for seven straight days and with no immediate signs of slowing down — and medical experts believe that the numbers are even higher with many cases not reported from rural areas. The reported national fatality rate is at 1.11%, with an acute shortage of medical supplies including oxygen. Hospitals and crematoriums alike are overwhelmed, and hotels and railway coaches are being converted into critical care facilities to make up for the shortage of hospital beds.
ELCIC’s partner, Canadian Lutheran World Relief (CLWR), is accepting donations to assist with this crisis. Donations will provide emergency medical support to those faced to be sick at home, and help support critical advocacy and public awareness efforts to keep as many people safe as possible.
Individuals and congregations wishing to support relief efforts can donate as follows:
- Make a designated offering donation for “India Covid Crisis” through any ELCIC congregation.
- Call CLWR at 1-800-661-2597 (locally at 204-694-6502) to donate by credit card or go online at clwr.org/india.
- Send a cheque made payable to CLWR and mailed to CLWR, 600-177 Lombard Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3B 0W5. Please indicate that you wish to contribute to “India Covid Crisis.”
