GEORGE NEWS - Georgians have big hearts when it comes to giving. This has not changed in the challenging time of Covid-19, but it seems that Government does not yet have a clear plan for how to go about it. 

George Herald has asked around to find out where those who are eager to help, can make their contributions.

George Municipality said that persons or organisations wanting to donate or provide assistance in George through official channels can register here or contact the Social Development office on 044 802 2000. Registered persons or organisations will be contacted in due time. 

“Donations will be controlled in adherence to lockdown regulations and responsibly distributed. The process will be managed by the George Municipality and Department Social Development.”

Symphonia for South Africa (SSA) is another NPO taking initiative during this time. Its flagship programme, Partners for Possibility, is a leadership development programme supporting school principals. 

The programme provides about nine million learners with a daily meal at schools. Reaching out through its Facebook page earlier this week, it said, “With the early closure of schools due to Covid-19, many of these learners will go hungry. That is why we are asking people to support us to get food to children across the country.”

Dr Louise van Rhyn, the CEO of SSA, said they have teams on the ground in all nine provinces. 

“We work with the existing feeding schemes of the Department of Education, community services of the department of social development and role players in the provincial disaster management teams.”

Melanie Burke, the chairperson of the SSA board of directors, said they currently work with more than 1 200 principals across the country. “This network of community leaders and active citizens makes a real contribution during this time of crisis.”

Individuals and businesses who want to assist can contact Dr Louise van Rhyn on 082 449 1414 or louise@symphonia.net.

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