As a devastating second wave of COVID-19 continues to take a tragic toll on India, non-profit organizations of Indian origin have teamed up to launch a fundraising effort to purchase life-saving equipment for under-resourced medical facilities. The Asian Indian Women’s Organization (AIWO), India Association of Greater Springfield and the Hindu Temple of Greater Springfield have launched a Midwest response for purchasing life-saving oxygen equipment in collaboration with Hospital Sisters Mission Outreach.
The fundraising campaign called Breath for India, acknowledges that the struggle for breath experienced by COVID-19 patients has reached devastating proportions in India. A severe second wave of the pandemic has overwhelmed hospitals and medical care facilities with over 350,000 new cases being reported every day. Each person diagnosed joins a multitude of suffering that has already claimed hundreds of thousands of lives.
The goal of Breath for India is to raise over $250,000 towards oxygen supply units, PPE and home care units. These are being delivered directly to hospitals and nursing homes identified by a steering committee of local physicians who are in in constant touch with medical personnel on the ground in India. Organizers of the campaign are grateful for the generous donations that have been made thus far and touched by the outpouring of support, including a significant contribution of $50,000 made by Dr. Subhash Chaudhary and his family.
“We recognize the magnitude of the need in India and understand that every bit of assistance counts at this time. It is heartening to see the many relief efforts of physicians in Springfield who have helped put together a plan for the supply of life-saving equipment to areas in India that are in greatest need. We are humbled by their commitment and dedication and glad to be able to help,” said Mrs. Rambha Chaudhary, confirming their support for Breath for India.
To make a donation, or to learn more about this fundraising effort, please visit: https://missionoutreach.org/. Please contact Chandana Nandi at chandana.nandi@gmail.com with any questions.
