Romani entrepreneurs bring gifts to hospital staff in Czech town during COVID-19

Last week Romani entrepreneurs delivered a donation of groceries and hygienic supplies to employees of the hospital in the town of Sokolov, Czech Republic. “All of the employees of the hospital send their heartfelt thanks to the Romani community of entrepreneurs from Vintířov, we greatly appreciate this, thank you,” the hospital posted to its Facebook page.

The contribution has sparked a wave of positive reactions. “Milan Horvát and his son Dominik came up with all this, and when they called to ask me whether I would contribute, I didn’t hesitate one second,” said Romani community member Martin Bláha.

“I’m elated and proud of all of us and this great respect and reverence for the doctors. I was glad to contribute and I’m here for a good cause any time,” Bláha said.

Romani community members Pavel Demeter, Roman Fabián, Tomáš Miňo and Daniel Sliško also joined the aid effort. Attempts to combat the COVID-19 pandemic in the Czech Republic have prompted significant efforts from civil society and individuals since the Government declared a state of emergency earlier this month.