By now you're probably aware of the issues surrounding the covid crisis currently affecting the people of India?

Less widely reported is that it's just as bad if not worse in Nepal.

Basic medical care is unavailable, there's no government support for individuals or businesses. It's survival of the fittest; a terrifying and grim position to find oneself in.

My good friend David Sitaula and his family own the Hatakami paper mill in Jhapa, Nepal where he employs around 50 staff to help make his beautiful papers which we at VPCo and many of our customers enjoy using.

At just 24 years of age, David is one of the most impressive people I've had the good fortune to call a friend. As well as building a new mill to continue his family business he's also built good quality, rent and bill-free accomodation for his employees and has long term plans to build a school for the local kids. He's a genuinely good person.

In an attempt to protect his family and his employees David has closed his mill - no one is allowed in or out. He has enough food to feed everyone there for about 2 weeks but he can't do what he wants which is to make and sell paper.

When their lockdown is over they can get back to doing what they do best - making great paper. Until that time they have ZERO income, many mouths to feed and people to keep safe and sound.

We're asking you to join us by donating some money - any amount will be gratefully received so that they can continue to house and feed the team until this emergency subsides.

You can read a CNN report on Nepal's crisis here .

Thank you for reading this.