As its response to coronavirus disease (COVID-19) further intensifies, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) on Saturday, Sept. 25, sends out a call for more volunteers.
“Our volunteers are the unsung heroes of the Philippine Red Cross,” said PRC Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Senator Richard Gordon.
Gordon also honored the volunteers by recognizing their willingness to help and concern for other people.
“We are grateful to work hand-in-hand with individuals who make all sorts of sacrifices to brave this pandemic, changing the lives of the people they serve, and helping people to live safely,” he added.
Since the start of the pandemic last year, the PRC --- through its volunteers and staff from all over the country -- has been providing assistance and lifesaving services to those directly and indirectly affected by COVID-19.
Driving Force
PRC said that the volunteers are the “driving force” of the its 1158 COVID-19 hotline which helps individuals with pandemic-related inquiries.
Under the supervision of social workers, PRC said that volunteers “take shifts answering questions, scheduling swabs, connecting patients to hospitals, and even pacifying individuals with self-harm tendencies due to anxieties brought about by the deadly virus.”
Aside from the COVID-19 helpline, medical volunteers significantly contributed to PRC’s manpower when it established its isolation facilities and medical tents to support the country’s overwhelmed healthcare system.
Recognizing the contribution of the volunteers, Gordon encouraged more individuals to engage in voluntary endeavors citing that “there are a lot of people in need of aid because of the raging pandemic.”
To volunteer, interested individuals may contact the PRC Volunteer Services via email at [email protected].