By Luke Mills
2020 has been written off as a year to forget, but, amid the chaos, we have heard of heart-warming, inspiring stories of how communities have come together to show their support for others.
Volunteers at Bidyanando Foundation in Baghdad helping those most affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
In the face of confusion and panic, we as a world have learned to adapt to the bizarre circumstances we find ourselves in. In doing so, many people have reached out to those most affected and are still selflessly working hard to help others in these difficult times.
As Britain entered into a national lockdown, most of us were confined for our own safety in our homes - out of harm’s way from the coronavirus pandemic. But, even with this looming threat, thousands of NHS staff (and other key workers) put their lives at risk every day to provide aid to those who need it the most. In return, communities around the country took part in Clap for Carers and donated to NHS charities to show their support for the doctors and nurses on the front line. Even more inspiring, by March, around 20,000 former NHS staff decided to return as volunteers to help those hit hardest by the coronavirus pandemic. The determined and fearless attitude of these volunteers has motivated people all across the country to come together as a community and also provide help to those who need it.
But it’s not just coronavirus that has given society a wake up call - the Black Lives Matter Movement has provided us with a much needed opportunity to recognise systemic racism and tackle the severe issue once and for all. In response to the killing of George Floyd, Black Lives Matter protests formed in cities around the world to allow people to express their grief and anger. From Los Angeles to Auckland, peaceful demonstrations have built vital awareness on the pressing issue of racism and have allowed millions to have their voices heard. The coming together of millions of people - no matter what their race, or age, or class - is truly inspiring and perfectly demonstrates how we can change society for the better if we work together.
In recent weeks, you are likely to have heard of the news that MPs have rejected plans to extend free school meals to vulnerable children over the term holidays. In the midst of economic uncertainty, this has left millions of families around Britain worried for the health and wellbeing of their children. But, in a perfect display of good-heartened community spirit, it wasn’t long before everyday citizens selflessly took it upon themselves to provide help to the most vulnerable in our society. From restaurant owners to school staff, people have welcomed those affected by the news with open arms and have provided free daily meals for them. This charitable act has prevented around 1.4 million children who are eligible for school meals (as of January 2020) from going hungry.
In these unprecedented times, people all around the world have managed to turn negatives into positives and support others along the way. These uplifting demonstrations of human kindness prove that community spirit is still very much alive in the 21st Century.
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