There has been a lot going on in South Africa recently, from looting and fires in both Durban and Johannesburg to taxi violence in Cape Town. And on top of it all, the world is battling against the fight of COVID-19 and the impact it has on people’s lives across the globe. There’s no denying that, more than ever, we need to stand together as a nation and help rebuild our beautiful country. Here are 10 ways you can help assist the communities and people that were impacted by current events in South Africa:
- Reach out if you or a loved one need help
It’s time for a #cleanstart and a new beginning. Let’s work together and help rebuild our beautiful country. SweepSouth is here to help you, from home cleaning services, handymen, electricians, painters and more. If you or a loved one have been impacted by the looting and fires in KZN and Gauteng, we want to help you. You can get in touch with us through our online form. We hope to assist you with a home service you might need at home.
2. Donate and help support the LIV Durban Emergency Fund
Donations will go towards buying food from local KZN suppliers, medical supplies, fuel for the generators and getting the food to the community. Visit www.liv-village.com/donate for more information.
3. Support the SPCA and help save the animals
The Germiston Bedfordview SPCA was hit twice by looters, with items stolen and windows smashed. The theft comes as a blow for an already under-resourced organisation, and an appeal has been made for any donations to help the animal welfare society continue with its work to ensure animals are taken care of. See here for information on how to help.
4. Help ‘Gift of the Givers’ raise funds
Gift of the Givers is raising funds to help protect large-scale food distribution facilities, to keep the supply chain up and running at the height of this crisis. The NGO has asked for donations to fund their proposed intervention to alleviate food and fuel shortages.
5. Join the local community
Follow @clean_up_kzn and join the local community to help clean up. If you’re in the area, you can also call local old age homes/ orphanages and ask if you can assist with medication collection or a pair of extra hands.
6. Collect formula and nappies for babies and help new moms
Help babies and desperate moms in KZN through @drraebaker, who has started a drive to collect tins of formula and nappies. Nappies, formula and bread can be delivered to 460 Peter Mokaba Ridge in Berea.
7. Drop off the essentials
Live in Cape Town? With the help of Hey Gorgeous’s courier partners Bex, SA Harvest & Catalyze, they have launched a nonperishable food/supplies drive to help the people in KZN. If you can help, please drop off nonperishable food items, nappies, baby food, sanitary care, pet food, etc. at one of their stores in Claremont (12 Cavendish Street, just behind Cavendish Square mountainside). Or Willowbridge Mall, Carl Cronje Street, Tygervalley, or their distribution center: Units E3&4 Prime Park, Mocke Street, Diep River.
8. Help kennels that desperately need water & food
The_pact_official, who helps homeless, neglected and abused animals in the Phoenix area urgently need food and water. They have run out of food and the kennels have no water left in their JoJo tank. To help, see the_pact_official.
9. Help stock and restock the shops in KZN and Gauteng
The people living in these areas need essential items like nappies, milk and bread. You can reach out to @zenzilo_wholesale on Instagram or @sha_maharaj who will be filling trucks to go to the areas affected. Also, take note Umhlanga Farmers Market can deliver spinach, broccoli, kale, parsley, lettuce and pawpaw. To get involved call Zethu 081 056 0531.
10. Send food supplies to KZN from Cape Town
Hope SA will be sending food supplies to KZN from Cape Town and Johannesburg via chartered aircraft, and via road as soon as it’s safer. To donate visit www.hopesa.org.
