Loyse Vincent
Much like the rest of the world, most Tobagonians have pulled into their personal spaces to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
And while many struggle with comparatively trivial issues like boredom and the closure of fast-food restaurants, some have no food to feed their families as they have been hit the hardest by the pandemic.
Good Samaritans have, however, stepped in and are going the distance to help those who are socially vulnerable.
Jody Melville is one of those persons quietly assisting people who need help accessing Government’s social grants.
Melville told Tobago Today she understands not everyone in need of a grant can fill out the forms.
“I was also affected by COVID-19, so when the Government sent out the information about assisting persons with a temporary monthly grant, I decided to do my homework and did it for myself,” she revealed.
She said while going through the process, she realised persons who are not computer literate and who have no access to a scanner and a computer cannot fill out the form satisfactorily.
Naturally, she offered help to those in need.
“I sent out a Facebook post with my telephone number to share it with anyone who needs my help.”
Melville said the response to her post has been overwhelming.
“I get calls from as early as 6 am. I always answer with a smile because I don't know what a person's mental state is at this time. I try my best to be careful, these are trying times so we have to help care and love one another.”
While she admits it's sometimes overwhelming, she immediately conceded, “I love helping people, so it’s a norm.”
The single mother is also the owner of “Purty Visa Application,” which guides people with the visa application process for the United States of America and Canada.
She said she is no stranger to helping others as she has also assisted students, school and dance groups and NGOs with the visa application process for free.