DSD makes urgent appeal for public assistance

The Western Cape Department of Social Development has called on the private sector and the general public who are in a position to assist, to support relief NPOs as they respond to the weather-related disaster.  

DSD funds five humanitarian relief organisations – Mustadafin Foundation, The Salvation Army, Community Chest of the Western Cape, Al-Imdaad Foundation, and For Afrika - to provide post disaster support. These organisations can be supported either directly, or via the Cape Care Fund. 

They have been working alongside other relief organisations, as well as local, national and provincial government departments to assist affected residents. Support provided thus far include blankets, meals, and hygiene packs. 

However, due to large number of households simultaneously impacted across the province, the system is under severe strain. There are also some areas that can’t yet be accessed due to damaged roads and infrastructure. In this regard, we appreciate the support the Western Cape Government is receiving from Working on Fire, who is flying supplies to areas that cannot be accessed.

“We appeal to the public and business sector to assist within your communities if it’s safe to do so, or to support humanitarian NPOs where possible,” said Western Cape Minister of Social Development, Jaco Londt.  

Minister Londt thanked all NPO partners, their workers and volunteers, as well as the frontline staff from DSD, municipalities, and disaster management for their ongoing efforts to bring humanitarian relief to affected communities.

To date, 3 628 people across the Western Cape have been displaced and are being housed in community halls. 

• West Coast: 823
• Cape Winelands: 2 200
• Overberg: 315
• Garden Route: 290 

In the City of Cape Town, 85 512 people in 22 146 homes have been impacted. 

If you would like to make a donation via the Cape Care Fund, visit https://capecarefund.org.za/ 

Direct deposits can also be made: 

Bank: Nedbank
Account: The Health Foundation – Cape Care Fund
Account Number: 1310 498 857
Branch code: 198 765
Branch Name: RRB Claremont
Type of Account: Current Account
Swift address: NEDSZAJJ

Media Enquiries
Esther Lewis
Head of Communications
Department of Social Development
Email: Esther.Lewis@westerncape.gov.za
Website: www.westerncape.gov.za