The DUCA Impact Lab and the School for Social Entrepreneurs in Canada build an international PPE supply chain specifically for local community agencies
The DUCA Impact Lab
TORONTO, June 29, 2020 /CNW/ - As Ontario begins to loosen restrictions, a group of social-service agencies have a new source of personal protective equipment thanks to the efforts of an informal network of far-flung volunteers, businesses, and organizations.
This initiative addresses a key gap in PPE supply efforts throughout the COVID-19 crisis — providing PPE for people who work in essential community services such as women's and homeless shelters, meal programs, and drop-ins, among others.
Unlike other services, including hospitals and long-term care homes, many social-service organizations weren't prepared with PPE on hand and, amid a global surge in demand, had little hope of getting any. Governments have not stepped up fast enough. Agencies have been faced with the impossible choice to stop essential services, scale back, or operate with less PPE than they should.
That's why staff at the School for Social Entrepreneurs (SSE) in Canada reached out to the School's local community and their contacts across continents to create a new PPE supply chain leveraging the BMW Foundation Herbert Quandt's Responsible Leaders Network and the League of Intrapreneurs.
"All these private citizens said, 'Not on my watch,' Marjorie Brans, Director of Impact at SSE says. Ordinary people all over the world wanted to do something to help when COVID-19 hit. On their own, they felt helpless, but by working together in a network they were able to make a difference for people who have been overlooked during this crisis. This is the everyday leadership we need"
DUCA Financial Services Credit Union, through its charitable foundation, the DUCA Impact Lab, donated the cash to help kickstart the initiative and purchase the supplies, including gloves, masks, and gowns. "DUCA is delighted to donate to support this impactful and timely initiative which very much aligns with DUCA's purpose to help People do more, be more and achieve more especially during these times" says Doug Conick, President & CEO of DUCA Credit Union and Chair of the DUCA Impact Lab.
"This is a global network that came together in the face of so many challenges. It's an example of the creative ingenuity brought to light by the crisis, and a refreshing reminder that interdependence with the global community can solve local challenges," Keith Taylor, Executive Director of DUCA Impact Lab, says.
Mobile Medics International, a non-profit that provides medical aid during humanitarian crises and health care to underserved populations, helped procure the PPE. Founder Teresa Gray says when it comes to social-service workers, "In the face of COVID, unrecognized means under-protected."
West Neighbourhood House, a non-profit multi-service agency in west Toronto, was one of the recipients.
"Thanks to DUCA Credit Union, the DUCA Impact Lab and these incredible volunteers, we have PPE to keep our Personal Support Workers safe as they work in the homes of seniors; and our drop-in workers safe as they maintain support and connections with homeless people. It's not medical care, but it's essential care," Executive Director Maureen Fair says.
Fair praised the volunteers who worked together across multiple time zones for weeks to comb the globe for sources of PPE. A BMW Foundation Responsible Leader in India was even inspired to transform his family's clothing factory, the Signet Group, to make PPE.
The gift from DUCA Credit Union was managed through through the Maitri Platform International Project Fund at Charities Aid Foundation (CAF) Canada, which helps Canadians to support charitable projects around the world. To contribute to the fund or learn more, visit the page on CanadaHelps.
About DUCA Financial Services Credit Union:
DUCA Financial Services Credit Union Ltd. (DUCA) was formed in 1954 and has grown from a single branch Credit Union in Toronto to branches across the GTA and Central Ontario with over 70,000 Members. DUCA provides comprehensive banking services to both individuals and businesses through an innovative Co-Operative Banking model. With no-fee banking, attractive mortgage and lending rates, a Profit Sharing program that rewards Members, and a commitment to communities through the DUCA Impact Lab, DUCA is an excellent alternative to traditional banking institutions. For more information visit www.duca.com.
About West Neighbourhood House:
West Neighbourhood House is a non-profit multi-service community organization serving all age groups and the diverse populations of downtown west Toronto. West NH has continued to provide in-person care to local seniors in their homes with dedicated Personal Support Workers and Meals on Wheels. West NH's drop-in for homeless people has also stayed open to provide basic needs such as toilets, showers, laundry, telephone and internet as well as case management and advocacy for housing, income supports, treatment programs, legal help and medical care. Learn more at: http://www.westnh.org/
About Mobile Medics International:
Mobile Medics International (MMI) is a 501(C)3 non-profit, volunteer organization that provides medical care to victims of natural disaster and humanitarian crises. MMI was founded to provide basic healthcare to those who may not be able to access medical facilities in a disaster or those who are medically underserved. As its name implies, MMI is a mobile team that specializes in reaching patients in remote areas. From weather-related catastrophes to refugee crises worldwide, MMI volunteers are ready to respond and help those affected. Learn more at: https://www.mobilemedicsinternational.org/
About the School for Social Entrepreneurs Canada:
A project of MakeWay's Shared Platform, The School for Social Entrepreneurs is a global leader in activating people and organizations to make positive social and environmental change by contributing to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. SSE works with executives, entrepreneurs, intrapreneurs, change makers, rebels, boat-rockers, and anyone who wants to disrupt the status quo for a more equitable and just world. Learn more at: www.the-sse.ca
SOURCE The DUCA Impact Lab
For further information: Marjorie Brans, mbrans@sseontario.org
Related Links
https://ducaimpactlab.com/
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The DUCA Impact Lab
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