Gift of the Givers has once again showed up at a time when they were needed most.
Hanover Park, Cape Town (22 September 2025) – In May earlier this year, Mrs. Williams, a single mom, experienced the unthinkable when a devastating fire ripped through her home. The upper level of the house was unfortunately destroyed and unlivable.
The community stepped in, appealing for any form of help.
Gift of the Givers, who this year celebrated 33 years of giving back in South Africa and across the world, were the ones to heed the desperate call.
Born in South Africa, the organisation has worked tirelessly to support vulnerable and marginalised communities through various humanitarian initiatives. It’s also the largest disaster response non-governmental organisation in Africa. Their work extends to the furthest reaches of the continent, but this time, it was at home in Cape Town where their support mattered and made a difference.
Through their Zakaat Housing Foundation Programme, which provides and restores safe and liveable homes for vulnerable families affected by disasters or hardships, the organisation took on the dedicated working of rebuilding and transforming Mrs. Williams home into a safe space for her and her family again.
“They came when I needed them the most,” said Mrs William, in deep gratitude with tears in her eyes. “Thanks to Gift of the Givers, my house is a home again.”
We’ve seen them respond to devastating fires with grace and compassion continuously, across South Africa.
In January this year, fires affected over 100 residents in Durban. Gift of the Givers showed up to do what they do best. When communities of Khayelitsha and Philippi were left devastated after several fires burned hundreds of homes, the Givers came in full force to share aid. When a fire in Marshalltown Johannesburg stole the lives and livelihood from hundreds of people, they were there, supporting firefighters. After a fire devastatingly impacted Charlotte Maxeke Hospital in 2021, Gift of the Givers stepped in to assist with a sixty million Rand upgrade to the facility.
Without organisations like this one, victims of disaster in South Africa, tallying in the thousands, would be worse off. Thanks to the love and compassion of the Givers and their commitment towards supporting anyone who needs the help, we’ve got better endings to celebrate, like that of Mrs. Williams.
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