Through dark lonely times, hope is always waiting to intervene

Through dark lonely times, hope is always waiting to intervene

HAD (Harrow Association of Disabled People) supports people with a range of disabilities since 1970 and is a member of SWISH (Support and Well-being Information Service Harrow) advice partnership.

In recognition of the vital work HAD is carrying out, Harrow Giving awarded a grant for welfare benefits advice.

Once the Covid-19 crisis struck, HAD and Help Harrow reacted quickly to set up a portal for ordering food and a helpline, as many disabled people were unable to go food shopping, access carers, and socialise.

Umesh Raichada, Employment, Support and Service Development Advisor at HAD, spoke about the vital support people like Eric, a 72-year-old man who has a heart condition, received.

As lockdown started, Eric got in touch with HAD about concerns of food and loneliness, which he was experiencing. Since the first phone call, he receives weekly food deliveries, and Umesh contacts him every week to see how he’s doing. Umesh conveyed:

“It’s so rewarding doing the food request for some of the most vulnerable people in our community.”

Additionally, HAD helped Priti, who has been shielding and became reliant on receiving food deliveries from SWISH. A particular volunteer, Eleanor, helped Priti through the online process to ensure she gets regular food parcels. As Priti is a pescatarian, Eleanor decided to surprise her with items she could consume and check up on her to see she received her food parcels.

Priti, who is grateful for all the support, said:

“I can honestly say that I have not been so happy in months, and the joy that I felt receiving a box of Rice Krispies, I know it’s silly, but I felt normal again. These wonderful acts of kindness show me that we may go through dark lonely times, but hope is always waiting to intervene.”

Harrow Giving is delighted to assist organisations like HAD, SWISH and Help Harrow, and it’s thanks to these organisations that the most vulnerable within our community continue to be supported.