IZIZWE Projects launched an emergency relief fund on Tuesday, April 7, to aid families in Walmer Township.
The non-profit company, based in Walmer Township, has become part of a close-knit family with the surrounding community over the 12 years they have been working together.
To that end, the emergency relief fund will aid families in dire need of assistance due to the lack of income brought on by the Covid-19 health crisis.
The “Help Us Help Others” social media campaign aims at assisting those who are unable to earn an income at this time, live in dire conditions and are in immediate need of food and essential items.
Individuals are challenged to donate R100 and to pledge to get four of their friends to do the same and pay it forward.
The primary goal is to raise enough funds to help 80 families for three months with an income of R800 per month, so they need a total of R192 000.
“We are currently working with and extending our support to multiple reputable organisations in Port Elizabeth like Missionvale Care Centre, Masifunde and Ithemba Special Care Centre where together, we identify those who are truly struggling and donate funds directly to them.
“This reduces the need for direct contact and there is no need for food parcels or soup kitchens but allows elderly, vulnerable families and individuals to purchase the items they need most,” said Martijn van der Put, co-founder and director of Izizwe Projects.
Prominent Port Elizabeth individuals and businesspeople are being approached to collaborate by sharing their time, expertise and networks to aid the campaign.
One who came on board is Fiks Mahola, a well-known actor, TV presenter and locally respected businessman known for his role as Simphiwe in 7de Laan.
Willing participants and contributors are encouraged to donate via the Go Get Funding platform.
Businesses who would like to get in involved can contact Celia Pienaar, Izizwe projects manager, at 081 491 8712.
To support this initiative, visit www.gogetfunding.com/izizwe-projects-emergency-fund/.
