GEORGE NEWS - Georgians have been slow to donate towards local efforts to relieve the plight of Capetonians suffering under an unprecedented water shortage.
Eden Lions president Carl van Blerk said since they launched their fund collection campaign a few weeks ago, only R3 000 has been donated.
Similarly, a campaign to collect water initiated by concerned resident Jakobus Gertse also had a weak response.
Van Blerk said, "The fact that the Day Zero date has been pushed back, does not mean that the problem has been solved.
"There is still a need for water. We are a bit disappointed, but the international Lions magazine will be publishing an item on our campaign, which might lead to donations from overseas."
The organisation initially decided to collect only money and use this to make bulk purchases of bottled water from sources close to Cape Town that will not affect the water table or municipal supply there.
The water is to be distributed where most needed by the Lions Clubs in Cape Town.
"Getting the water from a nearby source in Cape Town is cheaper than transporting it, and bulk buying is more cost efficient," said Van Blerk.
Eden Lions are currently appealing to local schools to become involved.
"If each child brings a R20 donation to school, it will amount to a lot and we could, if the school prefers, buy water here to send off to a school of their choice in Cape Town that could distribute it in their community as needed.
"Business donors are also welcome to nominate an organisation in Cape Town that their donation should go to, if they prefer."
The banking details for donations are: Eden Lions Club, FNB, George Branch, code 210 114, account number 6223 504 5045. Reference: CTWATER.
Water drop-off points
Gertse has organised the following drop-off points for bottled water donations:
- Outeniqua Plastics,
- Engen filling station in Knysna Road,
- 21 Tulip Street in Pacaltsdorp (Carla Ramas, phone number 074 494 9797),
- Red container in Conville on the corner of Nelson Mandela Boulevard and Streepkoppie Street.
The water will be distributed by Cape Town Disaster Management, as well as by a volunteer from North Pine in the Kraaifontein area.
Gertse can be contacted on 073 125 9224.
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