The novel coronavirus continues to have a significant impact all around the world. This deadly threat has an even greater impact on populations with lower socioeconomic status, as it seems the chance of contracting the virus is much higher in these communities. This increased risk is due to congregated living conditions and limited access to educational information on the virus, its symptoms, and preventative measures to take. Dar es Salaam YES Alumni put on a one-day Outreach Program in order to educate homeless youth about the coronavirus. 

The event included a fundraiser to help children even after the event was over and taught attendees about the effects of COVID-19. They demonstrated how to clean their premises, keep a six foot distance from each other, and maintain personal hygiene. Although some of the recommendations to prevent COVID-19 are difficult to implement given their living conditions, such as avoiding crowds, children were encouraged to maintain social distancing whenever possible, regularly wash their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, and cover their coughs and sneezes. To keep the children engaged throughout the event, alumni played games with them while educating them on and practicing social distancing. This brought smiles to the children’s faces and demonstrated the idea of having fun while staying healthy.

The fundraiser portion of the day brought goods from groups such as the Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College, Moshi Co-operative, University and College of African Wildlife Management. These groups donated a total of 15kg of sugar, three buckets of powder soap, and cooking oil, all of which was given to the shelter. At the end of the day, the alumni also helped fetch water with the youth. This was an important task for the alumni to help with, as the children have to walk at least 60 meters a day to fetch water. 

In order to keep everyone safe during these activities, the alumni took extra precautions. They focused on cleaning the premises where most of the youth interacted and wore face masks to prevent spread of the virus. 

While the children were able to learn some life-saving information, many of the alumni learned leadership skills and lessons that they will carry with them throughout their life.