The Trustees made the decision to close Workaid to volunteers and suspend the collection of tools to safeguard everyone against COVID-19 before the country-wide lockdown came into force.
For the Trustees it was a hard decision, knowing how important going to Workaid is for so many people, as well as young people in Africa. Plus the newly renovated Workaid Shop had only been officially opened two weeks before, with takings doing very well. Donated tools make a difference to the lives of people, but health and well-being had to come first.
The whole of Workaid’s premises remains closed for the foreseeable future until the health emergency is over. Key staff attend on alternate days and ensure the building is safe, with CCTV installed.
Workaid is fortunate to have a reasonable level of general reserves to see us through the current COVID-19 crisis. An emergency budget was approved by the Trustees giving the worst-case scenario for the next 6-12 months and we are as confident as we can be that Workaid will still be able to operate in the future. We are able for now to keep our employees on, thanks largely to the promise of 80% salary refunds from the Government.
Many of our expenses reduce in line with output, so if we don’t fill a container, then we don’t pay for its shipping. Likewise without heating and lights on, or even buying tea and biscuits, our costs are less.
The inspection of the last container for Kenya went smoothly. Unfortunately, it’s now going to sit at the Old Boot Factory, as we don’t want to risk sending it and incurring demurrage charges while it sits in port somewhere.
It’s incredibly sad not to have the hustle and bustle and hear the banter that makes Workaid so special. Volunteers receive regular news by email and we’ve tried out a group chat for a Virtual Tea Break… bring your own mug! 😉 that will take place regularly to help everyone keep in touch.
How can you help while Workaid is closed?
If you’re ordering online and would like to help the charity (at no cost to yourself), please sign up to Amazon Smile and easyfundraising, small amounts add up.
During this period we are managing our outgoings carefully. However, there are many unavoidable costs that we will continue to incur so that we can be ready to open as soon as possible. Please help us continue our work enabling disadvantaged young people in Africa to build sustainable livelihoods by donating today.
As our income is going to drop significantly, your help at this time is invaluable and very much appreciated.
All our supporters are very important to us, particularly at this difficult time. Thank you for your support in so many ways, take care and stay safe and healthy.
