Salvation Army Today - 11.17.2020 - Evangeline Booth Hospital
13Evangeline Booth Hospital in Ahmednagar, Maharashtra, is one of five large Salvation Army hospitals in India. The facility saw its first case of COVID-19 in March 2020 and has adapted its procedures in order to meet the needs of more than 3,200 patients who have presented with coronavirus symptoms since then. Many of the patients attending Evangeline Booth Hospital are already considered to be vulnerable individuals. In order to ensure biosecurity, patients are not able to receive food or other items from friends or family members. The Salvation Army provides a welcome kit comprising mineral water, a toothbrush and toothpaste, soap, sanitizer, a face mask and an energy drink. Hot tea and nutritious food – such as soup, boiled eggs and cookies – are provided to each in-patient three times a day. In addition to the high-quality care and excellent recovery rate, Evangeline Booth Hospital has become a ‘platform of social connection’ – with many COVID-19 patients going on to fundraise for the clinic amongst their own business and community contacts. This in turn ensures that the provision of diligent service and care continues to be offered – free of charge – to all who need it, without discrimination. Updates as The Salvation Army continues to respond to COVID-19 around the world can be found at sar.my/covid19