In a partnership with the United States Embassy in Brazil, the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) in the Federal District acquired R$50 thousand in gloves for procedures to combat the new coronavirus. The cash value was donated by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to the Adventist institution, which purchased the products.

The materials were donated to the Federal District Health Department on Tuesday, April 20. The ceremony took place at the ADRA Center in Samambaia, with representatives from the entity, the United States Embassy in Brazil, and the Federal District Health Department.

According to the director of the Adventist agency in the DF, Jeconias Neto, she has been working since the beginning of the pandemic in supporting the needy population of Brazil in its most diverse regions, through assistance in basic food baskets, hygiene kits, and various psychosocial services. “This is another important action, as it strengthens the main sector that has helped the population in the struggle for life, which is the Health Department of the Federal District. It is also important, as we need to seek a movement of love and solidarity in this very difficult time for all of us”, Neto said.

Joint Work

The amount donated by the embassy made it possible to purchase 60,000 powdered rubber latex gloves, necessary equipment for all health professionals. The United States Embassy, ​​through USAID, already has partnerships with ADRA in several projects. “We know how important it is to support local health authorities to respond to the needs of the most vulnerable. At this moment, one of the most important needs is for protective equipment for health professionals who are on the front line so that they can continue to serve the population safely,” points out Ted Gehr, director of USAID in Brazil. "We are very happy to be able to help."

For the Health Department of the Federal District, the aid came at a good time, since the demand for protective materials has been increasing more and more in the market. “All donations are very welcome, especially those that we have difficulties in acquiring in the market. These materials will help a lot in our service provision”, expressed Rogéria Romanholo, undersecretary of the Undersecretariat for Logistics and Health.

“The moment is one of pain and uncertainty, but together we will overcome it! May God help us and give us health and healing”, Neto emphasized.

To learn about ADRA's projects, visit adra.org.br.

This article was originally published on the South American Division’s Portuguese news site