TED Talks Daily A comprehensive, neighborhood-based response to COVID-19 | Kwame Owusu-Kesse
Jul 21, 2020
Kwame Owusu-Kesse, the COO of the Harlem Children's Zone, discusses innovative strategies for community recovery amid the pandemic. He emphasizes a holistic approach that combines education, health, and economic stability to address deep-rooted disparities. Kwame outlines a five-point plan focusing on emergency relief, protecting vulnerable populations, and bridging the digital divide. His insights highlight how neighborhood-based initiatives can foster resilience and inspire change, with a vision to scale these efforts across the U.S.
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Comprehensive Approach
- The Harlem Children's Zone pioneers comprehensive, place-based services.
- They address interconnected community challenges holistically, rather than isolating issues.
Sean's Story
- Second-grader Sean's family faced hardship during the pandemic, including hospitalization and homelessness.
- This story highlights the struggles of many families within the Harlem Children's Zone.
Five Focus Areas
- The Harlem Children's Zone's COVID-19 response focuses on five key areas: emergency funds, protecting the vulnerable, bridging the digital divide, supporting virtual learning, and mitigating the mental health crisis.
- These areas address immediate needs and long-term recovery.