UniãoSP is an initiative taken by a number of civil society groups that seek to avert a humanitarian crisis resulting from the Coronavirus pandemic in the State of São Paulo. “We’re going through quite a rough period in our history. Solidarity and taking care of each other are the only ways to cope with fear and hopelessness and to overcome everything by building a better future,” states Ana Maria Diniz from Península Participações.

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The Emergency Fund to Support People Threatened by COVID-19, one of UniãoSP’s initial efforts, will raise private funds, and buy and distribute products according to demand during the pandemic. “We’ve focused on designing a quick solution for private funding to target the most vulnerable families affected by Coronavirus. The magnitude and speed at which this disease spreads calls for urgent responses. Therefore, we’ve decided to focus our energy on actions that are simple to execute and have a high level of social impact. Right now, we can’t wait for things to resolve themselves. The responsibility lies with all of us,” explains Eduardo Mufarej, founder of RenovaBR.

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“For those of us in the State Government of São Paulo, it’s really important to be able to depend on the support of civil society, so that we can jointly reach out to those who need it most with more strength and speed.” Célia Parnes, Secretary of Social Development for the State of São Paulo.

 

In its early stages, the raised proceeds will be used to purchase food and hygiene and cleaning products for vulnerable communities in São Paulo in coordination with the State Government, Municipalities and nonprofit organizations.