Caremongering initiative sweeps the nation

By Kaitlyn Clark

The Haldimand Press

HALDIMAND—As fear increased with the growing COVID-19 pandemic, people began organizing across Canada for a special purpose: caremongering.

The initiative began in Toronto. Valentina Harper, one of the Toronto Caremongering group’s founders, explained to BBC, “Scaremongering is a big problem. We wanted to switch that around and get people to connect on a positive level, to connect with each other.”

Thousands joined the Toronto group, and groups for other communities began popping up in quick succession. Posts focus on two topics: #iso (in search of) and #offer – allowing people to ask for help, such as for a specific item they are in need of, and allowing others to answer the call.

While everyone is encouraged to practice social distancing and stay home whenever possible, some interactions are required eventually, such as grocery shopping. Those who are self isolating do not have this option, whether for their own safety because they are at risk of complications if they contract COVID-19, or for the safety of others if they have come into contact with positive cases. Caremongering groups have become particularly important to those who are self isolating as other community members can step forward to deliver items that they may need. By dropping the items at the door and leaving, the self isolation is upheld and those stuck inside have their needs met.