These are some of the darkest times in modern history, and many believe we should learn a lesson from the aggressive novel virus that forced the world to shut down and live in fear.

However, hard times create heroes. During the coronavirus pandemic, many have shown their compassionate, humane side, and decided to help the ones in need.

The story of Day-Today Drylaw Local went viral after people found that it gives away free “coronavirus packs” to the elderly.

The Edinburgh convenience store announced it on social media and explained that these “coronavirus packs” contain one toilet roll, an antibacterial handwash, one packet of pocket tissues and a packet of paracetamol.

Day-Today Drylaw Local from Edinburgh has been giving away ‘coronavirus packs’ to the elderly for free

Local elderly residents over 65 and infirm customers who may be stuck at home can claim the packs, and if they are unable to come to the shop, the staff offered to deliver them for free.

Zahid Iqbal, 34, who runs the Day-Today convenience store at Drylaw Shopping Centre, explained that he got the idea while he accompanied his parents to a local supermarket, where the panic buying of goods had emptied the shelves.

He said:

“All the youngsters are picking stuff up and the older ones are being left out. We have lots of customers from the local care homes, as well as disabled customers, who can’t get hand sanitizers, loo rolls or anything at all.

We just want to set a good example in this world.”

He added that the initiative already cost his business £5000, but his loyal customers deserve every penny. He believes “money can be made in the future”, but “the satisfaction you get helping people out is just amazing.”

This act of philanthropy fascinated many, and people thanked them for their compassion and care.

One user commented:

 “Absolutely amazing thing to do, I hope people will remember the people and businesses that stood up and done what they could regardless of the cost for the people who needed it most.”.

To prevent the spread of the coronavirus, the UK Government plans to implement stricter measures, and mass gatherings are set to be banned across the country from next weekend.

The Scottish FA has called off all domestic professional and grassroots football until further notice, and the First Minister Nicola Sturgeon announced that gatherings of over 500 will be banned from March 16.

Sources:
www.edinburghnews.scotsman.com
www.dailyrecord.co.uk
sparkt.com