Eastern Cape Flood Response

During February 2023, communities within Eastern Cape were affected by torrential rains and flooding thus resulting in the displacement of families and damage to infrastructure. Over 1000 individuals had to be moved to community halls and other shelters after the surrounding dam overflowed.

Following calls for emergency assistance and aid from Disaster Management, the local municipality, and residents, Gift of the Givers intervened by providing hot meals, potable water, blankets, mattresses, hygiene packs, and food hampers to families were either displaced or whose mud homes and belongings were washed away.

Once these immediate needs were met, the organisation focused its efforts on assisting St Theresa Primary School in Komani. The school's ablution facilities were damaged as a result of the flooding thus hindering the academic programme.

The existing ablution facility was repaired and received additional upgrades. The pre-primary section received three additional toilets and two extra basins with taps. The primary school section was upgraded with 24 toilets, 6 urinals, and 11 basins. Our teams also painted the inside of the ablution blocks, repaired the damaged doors, repaired broken windows and stone guards, and also inspected and replaced damaged water pipes. In addition, a fully furbished classroom block was provided to the school.

This intervention forms part of Gift of the Givers strategy towards enabling long-term growth and sustainability. Projects such as these will go on to benefit future generations in order for people to receive a sound education in an environment conducive to learning.