HOPE Cape Town in the time of COVID-19
The work of HOPE Cape Town has never been of greater importance than now in the current challenge of the COVID-19 pandemic and what will be the aftermath. HOPE Cape Town had to adjust the way that we work to comply with lockdown regulations, but we have remained operational throughout this period.
Some points of interest:
- Dr Samke Nyamathe has been appointed as the HOPE Cape Town COVID-19 Compliance Officer.
- A COVID-19 policy has been put in place which is regularly updated.
- The HOPE Cape Town main office and research office has been closed on 27 March 2020 for lockdown.
- Clinical staff (HCHWs, Medical Officers, HOPE to Home and HOPE for Babies staff) remain on duty – they are also involved in data capturing, counselling, screening and testing for COVID-19.
- Normal operations at Blikkiesdorp Community outreach was suspended, but as a result of the growing need, we started a daily feeding scheme for the community. We are currently providing breakfast and lunch from Monday – Friday.
- Office based staff work remotely.
- Back office staff work remotely but meet daily to coordinate operations, fundraising and the development of The Nex.
- We are in the process of getting the offices “COVID-19 ready” in accordance to the national guidelines. The main office and research office will be incrementally reopened from 1 June 2020 onwards.
We are keeping a close eye on international COVID-19 developments in terms of travel, safety and guidelines. We are not currently accepting any new applications for international volunteers. Please keep on checking our website for further developments.
