Corona vs. Coronavirus: A NYC Neighborhood’s Resilience

In New York City’s Corona neighborhood, residents find dark humor in the irony of their home’s name during the pandemic. “We joke about living in ‘Corona’ while fighting a coronavirus,” says Francisco Ortega, a local gardener. The area, known for its vibrant Ecuadorian and Mexican communities, has faced unique challenges balancing cultural traditions with pandemic safety.

Francisco, who lost relatives to COVID-19, still rides crowded buses to work daily. “Stopping isn’t an option,” he explains. “But every ride feels risky.” The struggle to socially distance clashes with the neighborhood’s warm, communal culture—where greetings often involve hugs and shared meals.

Yet Corona’s spirit remains unbroken. Residents swap homemade masks, organize food drives, and check on elderly neighbors. “We protect each other like family,” Francisco says. “The virus won’t take our community’s heart.”

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Story of Fighting COVID-19: An NYC neighborhood tackles COVID-19

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