MOSSEL BAY NEWS - The adminstrators of a facebook page, Mossel Bay Covid-19 Donations, Supplies & Information, say they have been inundated with requests for food parcels, more so due to the lockdown extension.
The national lockdown was due to end on 16 April.
The group comprises a number of non-profit organisations that have pooled their efforts to make a greater impact in the greater Mossel Bay area.
The group was founded by a local philanthropist, who chooses to remain unnamed.
“Our aim is to operate as an umbrella organisation for NPOs who already have people on their databases needing assistance. Since these NPOs did not have the resources to deal with the scourge of hunger, we realised that working together was the only way forward.”
Since its inception, the group’s efforts have made national news on eNCA and SABC has also indicated its interest, a spokesperson for the group confirmed this week.
According to the group’s director, the next 10 days will be a crucial time for its teams. “We need to have a ‘lean mean food service machine'.
"We are also aware that there are a lot of scammers operating at the moment. We appeal to everyone who can lend a hand and donate, to support us as well as the Mayoral Fund. Do not offer any form of cash or financial assistance to anyone that is not known to you."
How to get involved
The group says that its main aim is to provide sustainable food relief, while limiting movement by the general public. Donations can be collected at homes by members of the Mossel Bay Covid-19 Donations, Supplies & Information group in possession of permits to move around during the lockdown.
“We are on a learning curve; any assistance or advice will be much appreciated,” says a spokesperson. “We are trying to have a central hub for all requests for help, therefore administrators to help monitor our facebook page are much needed, to convey urgent messages to our relevant suburb administrators.”
Who to contact
The Mossel Bay Covid-19 Donations, Supplies & Information group operates from Dana Bay to Glentana and simple collection arrangements can be made by sending a WhatsApp to: Marietjie (Diaz to Glentana) 083 686 6956 or Luveta (Dana Bay to Bayview, including Asla, KwaNonqaba and outlying areas) 072 257 1660.
Those needing assistance can send the following details to the number provided: Name, surname, ID number, number of people and address.
Those wanting to get involved or donate are encouraged to visit www.facebook.com/groups/MosselBayCovid19Fund/?ref=share.
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