Giving Compass' Take:

• Andrew Herrera explains the importance of implementing partnerships with governments, nonprofits, and healthcare systems to support vulnerable communities that are struggling to respond to COVID-19. 

• What can donors do to jumpstart these types of global partnerships? 

• Here are suggestions and recommendations for donors addressing COVID-19. 

Over the coming weeks and months, COVID-19 is likely to affect everybody, everywhere, in some way or another. Some of those people will have access to well-resourced health systems and advanced health care. Most won't.

Around the world — and here in the United States — there are people in underserved communities who are feeling scared and alone — people who do not have access to quality education, health care, and, in many cases, even food. In this time of crisis, it's imperative we provide these communities and people with relevant, accurate, and up-to-date information about the coronavirus. They need the kind of information that so many of us have already gotten and take for granted: What are the symptoms of COVID-19? What should one do you do if s/he has symptoms? Who is at highest risk of infection? And how can you prevent the virus from spreading?

Globally, communities in developing countries are the least prepared and able to participate when it comes to pandemic lockdowns.   Needless to say, efforts to stay ahead of the fast-moving situation are problematic for these communities, which already struggle with underresourced healthcare systems. But by acting now, we provide them with a measure of hope.

Partnerships are key in these uncertain times. It is essential that governments, nonprofits, and health providers work together in order to maximize the impact of their efforts. At Curamericas Global, we constantly strive to partner with others to deliver measurable and sustainable improvements in the health and well-being of underserved communities. Through collaboration and the implementation of data-driven approaches and community-centered solutions, we are doing our small part to create a world free of suffering from preventable and treatable disease.

Read the full article about partnerships are crucial to address COVID-19 by Andrew Herrera at PhilanTopic.