CITY RENEWS DONATIONS CALL AMID LOCKDOWN EXTENSION

While the response for assistance for vulnerable groups has been commendable, the lockdown extension also means an increased need among the city’s most vulnerable residents.

The City of Cape Town extends its sincere appreciation to all of the donors who have heeded the call for donations for vulnerable groups during the nationwide lockdown.

The City is one of a number of organisations who have turned to corporates and individuals to assist those less fortunate during this unprecedented time in our country’s history.

To date, a number of donations have been received, including blankets, soap, non-perishable foodstuff, bottled water and beverages, cloth face masks and even reading materials.

These items have been distributed to old age homes, families in need and also at the Strandfontein temporary shelter for street people, among others.

‘Once again, Cape Town has come to the fore and shown its generous spirit in a time of unprecedented need. We would like to thank those individuals and corporates who have dug deep to provide assistance. We would not be where we are without their help. However, with the extension of the lockdown, we expect the need to increase in the coming week or two. The City therefore appeals to residents and corporates who have the means to please reach out to our Disaster Risk Management Centre to see whether they are able to help us acquire some much-needed donations at this time,’ said Executive Mayor, Alderman Dan Plato.

The City has compiled a list of basic foodstuff that will be used to make up food parcels for beneficiaries. Drop off trolleys are available at all Pick n Pay and Shoprite/Checkers stores in the city. 

Other needs at this time are:

·         Vanity packs (soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes, facecloths, sanitary towels) 

·         Toilet paper 

·         Adult diapers 

·         Mattresses

·         Blankets 

‘The lockdown means that we have had to change our donations modus operandi. As people are not able to leave home, we ask that they contact our donations helpline if they have items that they feel will be of use. Our Disaster Risk Management Centre staff and volunteers will then arrange for collection. Alternatively, the trolley drop-offs at the retailers are set up for when people visit the store to stock up on their own essentials. COVID-19 is more than a health crisis – it has also left us with a social crisis that has impacted most on our vulnerable groups. We need to pull together as a city to make sure that we weather the virus on all fronts,’ said the Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith.

The Disaster Risk Management Centre has a dedicated donations line – 021 597 6004, as well as an email address, which is disaster.donations@capetown.gov.za

A list of recommended foodstuff is outlined below:

The City further appeals to donors to please ensure the integrity of the packaging of donated goods and to be mindful of food safety guidelines. Packaged food should be donated in the original, unopened packaging with ingredient labels.