The Western Province Cricket Association (WPCA) has partnered with Gift of the Givers to launch a flood relief initiative, aiming to support communities across the Western Cape devastated by recent floods. Newlands Cricket Stadium will serve as an official collection point for in-kind donations from Monday.
Floods Cause Widespread Destruction
The severe weather has caused widespread destruction across the province, affecting areas from the Cape Metropole to Worcester, the Breede River Valley, Rawsonville, Ceres, Villiersdorp and Elim. According to the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, 18 people have died across South Africa, with the Western Cape being the worst-affected province, accounting for 11 fatalities.
The WPCA said the floods had caused tens of thousands of people to be affected, with homes washed away, infrastructure damaged, crops destroyed, and many communities left without access to essential resources. WPCA CEO Corrie van Zyl stated that their hearts go out to those in smaller and rural areas who have suffered immense loss.
Donation Drive
The collaborative initiative aims to provide urgent humanitarian relief and restore dignity to affected families. The public is urged to donate new essential items, including:
- mattresses
- blankets
- linen
- towels and face cloths
- clothing
- non-perishable food items
- bottled water
- hygiene packs
- soap
- toothpaste and toothbrushes
- roll-on deodorant and body lotion
- toilet paper
- sanitary pads and diapers
As stated by Van Zyl, the partnership with Gift of the Givers will enable Newlands to become a drop-off point for much-needed supplies, as many people have lost their livelihoods and currently have no access to basic necessities such as water, food, and blankets.
For more information on the flood relief efforts, visit the Wikipedia page on the 2023 South African floods to stay updated on the situation and find ways to contribute to the relief efforts.
