Expats contribute to epidemic control in Pudong

Many expats living in Pudong New Area have been contributing to the fight against the epidemic in recent days.

"I know that this is a tough time for China, but I believe that when all is said and done, China will continue to be a place where we can realize our dreams together," said an expat named Novy in a message to Chinese people on the online BBS platform of Community Center Shanghai (CCS), a non-profit organization that helps expats acclimatize to local life in Shanghai.

The expat lives in Biyun International Community in Jinqiao town, Pudong. Known as a "small United Nations", the community housed around 4,000 people from multiple countries despite the outbreak.

The community published epidemic prevention notices and useful information in many languages for expats to keep updated with the latest news and better protect themselves. It also offered bilingual face mask reservations through WeChat.

"The foreign residents cooperate with us by getting their temperatures taken, wearing masks, registering their information, and staying indoors," said Zhang Xiaoqing, director of the neighborhood committee of the community.

Some of the expats also helped the community draw picture books about epidemic prevention for families with kids.

An expat named Senait even launched an online campaign through the CCS platform called "Love Letter to China" to call on foreign residents to share their feelings by writing letters.

In Renheng Community in Lujiazui Sub-district, nearly 60 percent of its residents are expats. Many have helped the community workers spread messages among residents and increased ease of communication.

A volunteer group made up of Chinese and expats was also established in the community to improve epidemic control efforts.