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GEORGE NEWS - Community members and local businesses have pulled together to support Thembalethu's residents who were left destitute following the severe rain and windstorms that struck the Garden Route in May.

All Bricks Community Hall in Thembalethu is currently serving as a place of refuge and support, providing shelter to about 90 residents, many of whom are women and children. 

Bedding, daily warm meals and Wi-Fi access have been arranged for those staying at the hall.

According to Siyamthanda Johns of TooMuchWifi, the initiative formed part of the company's community engagement strategy, which operates through its TEENS model - Technology, Employment, Education, Nutrition and Security. Through this programme, 30% of revenue generated from monthly Wi-Fi subscriptions is reinvested into communities through various upliftment initiatives aimed at addressing local needs.

TooMuchWifi technician Roman Maritz set up some Wi-Fi connections at the All Bricks Hall during Friday’s soup drive. Photo: Marguerite van Ginkel

Johns, regional sales manager Ziska Michaels, district expansion manager Sivuyiswe Oliver and activations specialist Alton Diedericks co-ordinated the support efforts at the hall. In addition to arranging a soup drive on Friday 29 May, the team helped improve the facility by painting the exterior walls, commissioning wall art from local artist Blaine du Plessis and setting up Wi-Fi access for the residents taking shelter there.

Wall art by local artist Blaine du Plessis. Photo: Marguerite van Ginkel

Ward councillor Eric Mdaka, who has been monitoring the progress and assisting where possible, said rebuilding the homes damaged by the recent storms will take time, particularly as many residents have limited resources. Many are carrying out repairs after working hours and over weekends, whenever possible.

The South African Police Service's Community in Blue initiative has also stepped in to help secure the area.

An urgent need for building materials, blankets, bedding and food ingredients for soups and warm meals persists.

Some of the residents who were left without homes after the recent storms. Photo: Marguerite van Ginkel

Several stakeholders are involved in the relief effort, and further support from the community and local businesses is encouraged. Donations can be delivered to the All Bricks Community Hall on the corner of 13th and Tabata streets.

Adding colour to the hall. Photo: Marguerite van Ginkel

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