The COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent lockdown severely impacted the livelihoods of the Tribal communities in Makkampalayam, a village nestled in the Kadambur hills of Sathyamangalam, Erode district. With the implementation of the 144-curfew-lockdown, the people, especially the Urali Tribal families, were unable to earn their daily wages, leaving them struggling to meet their basic needs, particularly food.

In response to this crisis, the Jesuits of Makkampalayam, PARAN staff, and local volunteers came together to provide much-needed relief. On April 21, 2020, the team identified 40 of the most deserving families and distributed essential groceries, rice, and toilet articles, valued at Rs. 1001 per family, totalling Rs. 40,040. The team ensured safety by gathering the recipients in a socially-distanced manner, educating them on the importance of hygiene, handwashing, and wearing masks to protect themselves from the virus.

In addition to helping the Christian families, the team, guided by the local police and VAO, extended aid to four elderly individuals with grocery kits valued at Rs. 500 each. Recognizing further need, the team also reached out to 16 more families in Arigiyam village, offering relief packages.

This initiative was made possible by the collective efforts of local leaders, volunteers, and the PARAN Evening Study Center animators, who supported the distribution process. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, PARAN’s relief efforts helped alleviate the hardships faced by these vulnerable communities, offering both material support and critical health awareness during a time of unprecedented crisis.