How NYC’s Poorest Borough Sustained Itself Through the Pandemic (Full Film)

Recent questions

• How has the pandemic affected residents in the Bronx?

  Residents in the Bronx are facing starvation and job loss due to workplace closures during the pandemic. Food insecurity is a significant issue, leading to the establishment of food pantries by schools. Concerns about getting sick were prevalent, with a high workforce outside but still running at full capacity. Lack of government support was noted, with delays in stimulus and preparation for the pandemic. Public housing residents faced additional challenges with lack of repairs and poor living conditions.

• What challenges did healthcare workers in the Bronx face during the crisis?

  Healthcare workers in the Bronx found themselves overwhelmed with 14-15 patients a day during the crisis. The shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE) became a concern, prompting a focus on ensuring all members had adequate supplies for each call. The workforce faced challenges as up to 25% of staff were out sick at one point, reducing operational capacity. Despite many members falling ill with COVID-19, the team maintained operations by rotating shifts and supporting each other, ensuring ambulances were always available. The emotional and physical toll of the pandemic was significant, with staff working long hours, worrying about their health and families, leading to high stress levels.

• How did the Bronx community respond to the challenges of the pandemic?

  Despite the end of funding, efforts continued to feed thousands of people, especially during Thanksgiving. In mid-March, there was a surge in calls, reaching 6,500 in a 24-hour period, marking the busiest time in history for emergency services. The Bronx Documentary Center was established to teach journalism and photography to children and teens. The American Dream High School in the Bronx supports children of immigrants, offering food assistance and educational opportunities. The American Dream School provides community support beyond academics, including food pantries and translation services.

• What impact did the pandemic have on students in the Bronx?

  The pandemic disrupted schooling, leading to challenges with online learning and lack of resources like electronic devices and broadband. Students like Ashley and her brother faced difficulties concentrating and maintaining grades due to family responsibilities and health concerns. Uncertainty about graduation, prom, and college due to the pandemic added stress and challenges for students. Congressman Jamal Bowman highlighted systemic issues in Bronx schools, affecting student learning and motivation. Despite challenges, the school remained hopeful, emphasizing resilience and the belief in overcoming obstacles in the Bronx community.

• How did the pandemic affect the healthcare system in the Bronx?

  The experience of the pandemic, including the high death toll and lack of preparation, led to post-traumatic stress among healthcare workers, prompting some to retire or leave the profession. The pandemic exposed underlying issues in healthcare and societal structures, with a focus on addressing long-standing disparities and transforming the approach to healthcare and community well-being. The loss of a mentor and friend to COVID-19 highlighted the personal impact of the pandemic on healthcare workers, emphasizing the emotional toll of the crisis. Essential workers in the Bronx faced challenges due to living conditions and lack of government response. Public housing residents faced additional challenges with lack of repairs and poor living conditions.