An Important COVID-19 Update
Dear Spark Community,
Over the last year, it’s been our commitment to keep our supporters updated on how the global pandemic is affecting our partners. Thanks to you, our emergency response fund has provided PPE, sanitation supplies, food and additional program support to our international partners. Until recently, we’ve been fortunate that our friends and colleagues serving on the front lines have remained healthy.
This week, however, as Ndola and other urban centers in Zambia saw a post-holiday spike in infections, we received news of several confirmed COVID-19 cases within the Hope community. Out of respect for their privacy, names will not be disclosed at this point in time. We are saddened and deeply concerned. Through daily phone calls and ongoing communication, we are working closely with the Hope team to ensure that everyone with potential exposure is tested. We have wired funds for additional PPE, cleaning and sanitation, and to cover testing and COVID-related healthcare costs as needed. Hope School is delaying its reopening for the 2021 school year until the local health department determines it is safe for everyone to return.
We have all seen the devastating impact of this virus here in our own country, despite access to some of the best healthcare and medical facilities that exist. Zambia, one of the poorest countries in the world, has only a fraction of these resources. According to the reports we’ve received, the already inadequate hospital and medical infrastructure has quickly become overwhelmed. Needless to say, the days and weeks ahead for the Hope community and the country will be challenging.
We want you to know that Spark Ventures will do everything we can to support the needs of the Hope staff, students and community. We know many of you have a personal connection to the people and work of this amazing organization. If you would like to contribute to our efforts, we welcome additional donations to our COVID-19 Response Fund.
We promise to keep you updated on this situation, and we thank you for keeping our friends at Hope in your thoughts.
With gratitude,