As winter storms continue to batter Cape Town’s vulnerable communities, Christel House South Africa (CHSA) has recently launched an Emergency Flood and Winter Relief Campaign aimed at assisting families affected by flooding, storm damage and harsh living conditions.
Hosted by GivenGain, it is aimed at raising R100 000 to provide urgent relief and ongoing winter support to learners and families living in high-risk areas, such as informal settlements where flooding is a recurring challenge during winter.
According to CHSA spokesperson Megan Losper the school’s Social Services team sees a significant increase in requests for assistance every winter as families struggle with flooding, fires and severe weather conditions.
Winter Relief
“The recent severe storms and flooding across Cape Town communities highlighted the urgent and immediate needs many of our learners and families are facing,” she said.
In response, CHSA’s Social Services, Marketing and Fundraising departments worked together to launch the emergency campaign after seeing the need for immediate assistance and further winter-related intervention in the months ahead.
Although assessments were underway to determine the full extent of recent storm damage Christel House said many families had already reported devastating conditions, including homes damaged by strong winds, roofs blown away and floodwater entering homes.
The school, which is a non-governmental organisation, was conducting a poll among learners and staff to establish how many families had been severely affected and what support was needed most urgently.
“Our Social Services team is currently working closely with families to assess the full extent of the impact and identify the most urgent needs,” Losper pointed out.
Funds raised from the campaign were expected to assist families with both immediate relief and structural repairs to damaged homes.
Flood Response
The organisation was appealing for both monetary and in-kind donations to help supply essential items such as metal-roof sheeting, tarpaulins, plastic sheeting, sandbags, blankets, warm clothing and toiletries.
“A portion of the funds raised will support continued relief efforts throughout the winter season,” Losper said.
The school said winter remained one of the most difficult periods for many of the families it served, with repeated flooding and poor housing conditions placing learners and their households at risk.
Beyond physical damage to homes CHSA highlighted the emotional and social toll severe weather conditions had on children and families already facing difficult circumstances.
For many learners Christel House is more than just a school. It provides a stable environment where children can access warm meals, emotional support, routine and a sense of safety in times of crisis.
“Our school is often a safe space where students can access warm meals, emotional support, routine, care and a sense of security,” Megan explained.
“This becomes especially important during times of crisis and uncertainty within their communities.”
The organisation believes long-term support remains critical even after floodwaters subside, as many families continue to face ongoing economic hardship, unstable housing and limited resources.
Community Support
Members of the public are encouraged to contribute through monetary donations or by donating essential items needed for winter relief efforts.
Donations can be made directly through the GivenGain campaign page or via EFT into Christel House South Africa’s bank account.
Donors who contribute financially may also qualify for a Section 18A tax certificate.
The organisation said every contribution, no matter how small, can help provide warmth, safety and relief to vulnerable families facing another difficult Cape Town winter.
Community members who would like to support the campaign or assist affected families can also contact Christel House South Africa directly for more information about donation drives and partnership opportunities.
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