You can help Lions help the needy

GEORGE NEWS - Eden Lions, in collaboration with the George Alert Team (Gat), is enabling George residents to sponsor food hampers for people in need.

Benefactors pay for a hamper, Gat volunteers buy the products and make up the parcels, after which it is distributed through official channels.

According to Carl van Blerk of Gat, the combined efforts of these volunteer organisations have resulted in more than 400 substantial food packs being distributed throughout the region.

The other organisations that make up Gat are George Lions Club, Round Table, Rotary, Vryburgers, Moths and Love George NPC, while the distribution network includes George Municipality, the church network and the service clubs' distribution system.

Misunderstanding
Van Blerk is keen to clear up a misunderstanding about the wording on the poster advertising this service. The project was questioned on social media by community activist Joanie Visagie after she saw a poster advertising the service.

Van Blerk says he understands why the poster can be misunderstood. The poster states that food parcels can be ordered via WhatsApp or e-mail. "The fact is that these food hampers can be bought [sponsored] by businesses and individuals to aid those in need."

People cannot come to the Lions' clubhouse to collect a parcel.

Sponsor food parcels
"If your staff need assistance, or your domestic worker is in need, you can make contact with the club and obtain details to have a food pack delivered for a donation towards the costs," says Van Blerk.

Further donations to ensure the continuation of food packs are requested, R600 for a large parcels and R300 and R150 for smaller packs.

The large parcel sustains a family of five for a minimum of a week.