Corona crisis: Good samaritans in Darjeeling provide essentials to elderly

Amitava Banerjee |  MP | 24 MARCH 2020 | Darjeeling: Darjeeling has always been resilient and has fought off difficult times vehemently. From natural calamities to political strife there have always been good samaritans lending a helping hand.

The present COVID-19 crisis is no different as people have gone out of the way to help each other tide over difficult times.

Kargen Rai, a youth from Darjeeling in a social media site has written: "To all friends, colleagues, acquaintances living in Darjeeling. If you are not able to get to Darjeeling during these difficult times and if you have elderly parents here who need assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out. I can check on them and reach any essential supplies and medicine to them if required." Taking a cue from Kargen many of his friends have decided to join him in this noble task.

Glenary's, the landmark bakery of the town, has shut shop from Tuesday. However, they have decided to continue baking bread for the daily wage workers, charity homes and to anyone who needs support during the pandemic.

On Monday they had thrown open their doors for the community absolutely free. "After stocks got exhausted and little children kept pouring in we decided to give away our chocolates. Their million-dollar smile was worth everything. I am talking to other restaurants if we can arrange for food for the needy during the closedown," stated Ajoy Edwards, owner.

The town has a soft corner for the strays too. People leave food and even water for stray dogs, monkeys and birds on the streets.

"With the closing of restaurants and eateries the animals especially the strays will have to face difficult times. I have decided to go around town in the mornings to feed them, just like we did during the 104 days of the bandh. I will give them dry dog food like Pedigree and biscuits. I would also like to request all to make a little extra food and feed the birds, strays and the less fortunate," stated Paruka Chettri, an animal lover.

As for the kids getting bored at home in this closedown, the Alpine Philatelic and Numismatic Society of Darjeeling is giving away a free kit aimed at engaging kids in a constructive manner.

The kit contains a packet of stamps from all over the world; a stamp sporting reference sheet; list of Indian commemorative coins to refer to and sort and a hand wash with a handwashing guide.

(Source, Courtesy and Link- The Millenium Post   http://www.millenniumpost.in/kolkata/residents-from-other-states-clamour-to-get-on-goods-trucks-to-return-home-406252 )