Help for Migrants in the Time of COVID-19
By Diane Harrison*
There’s no question that everyone is struggling to navigate a world marred by a serious pandemic that’s brought about serious repercussions, especially economic and financial. However, it can be argued that immigrants are having it so much worse at this time as the government, in an effort to protect its own, has chosen to overlook their plight. As a result, countless migrant workers are now on unsure footing. So, let’s dig deeper to understand the problem and see what solutions may be at hand.
Anticipating the Challenges
It’s undeniable that migrant workers are among the hardest hit by COVID-19 — not in terms of infections, per se, but by the fallout. While the government is quick to come to the aid of its citizens affected by the pandemic, the same can’t be said for immigrants, leaving countless migrant workers to fend for themselves.
- The fact that immigrants are essential to the economy is undeniable.
- Many are even working on the frontlines of this pandemic, making them truly vital to the country’s COVID-19 response.
- Unfortunately, they are all but neglected right now in the pandemic, lacking assistance in almost all avenues from healthcare to economic.
Getting the Help You Need
Despite the direness of the situation, there’s still hope on the horizon. Migrant workers will likely have their work cut out for them as they seek much-needed help in their adoptive countries. But the fact is, help and support are available out there.
- Despite the general lack of healthcare for migrants, there are some healthcare resources that can prove to be useful.
- Some states and local governments have also stepped up to provide resources for immigrants, running the gamut from legal to financial to healthcare.
- There are also those devoted to protecting migrant farmworkers and, by extension, the country’s food supply.
Tapping the Right Services
Of course, it definitely pays to take matters into one’s own hands. In fact, it will serve migrant workers well to look into the many services that can be leveraged.
- Knowing one’s rights as an immigrant is more important now than ever.
- In fact, it can be wise to hire freelancers to help navigate through the red tape, so consider engaging an immigration lawyer or even just a translator.
- Of course, find a nanny who can be trusted to care for your kids as you work on improving your situation.
Indeed, it’s a difficult time that’s been made even more so with the multitude of uncertainties that migrant workers face on a daily basis. But really, there’s no reason to make this situation more overwhelming than it already is. Again, help can be had, and regardless if it comes from you, the government or other kind-hearted souls no longer matter. It just needs to be accepted.
Photo via Pexels.com
- I’m Diane Harrison, a former librarian of 15 years turned non-profit marketing guru. Although I’m no longer a librarian and have switched career gears completely, I’ve combined my passion for helping others as well as my writing and researching skills to gather helpful health information.
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Thanks for informing us Diane!
PWS
05-28-20