Parts of Diepsloot faced flash flooding over the last few days leaving many people destitute and only wearing the clothing on their backs; Wot-If Trust has thanked local organisations for stepping in to help.
Diepsloot, South Africa (17 February 2023) – The heavy rains saw flash floods wash away parts of Diepsloot a few days earlier. The communities affected by the flash flooding lived closest to the Jukskei River which runs through the north of Johannesburg.
Many have been left with only the clothing on their backs so the Wot-If? Trust started a donation drive and has been blown away by the support from surrounding communities and fellow charitable organisations.
Wot If? builds hope within the community and creates real change for all those involved in its various projects. Their goal is to see these projects spread throughout communities in South Africa. They continuously develop projects that are replicable and scalable.
While they work within the upliftment space, the trust has taken on a disaster management role for the community, to help collect much-needed aid.
“Since Tuesday evening, several families in the squatter camps in Extension 1 and 2 of Diepsloot were affected by heavy flooding. They had to flee their homes and sleep at the youth center. They have spent the day mopping up, but sadly the rains are coming again and their homes are still not liveable.
Tonight, 45 families will again huddle together in the youth center – but thanks to some amazing people, it will be more comfortable.
Today 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day donated 150 blankets. The Dainfern Community and Susan Harwood BAGS Of Love donated 3 large containers of Essential Food items and Roots Butchery Diepsloot donated enough ingredients to make a large chicken stew for everyone.
Afrika Tikkun Green Acres (Agri project) also sent fresh veggies for the stew. Thank you to Joseph Mvelasi from Diepsloot Residence Association for coordinating the efforts (and for volunteering to cook the food) and for also doing all the collections and distribution.
Together we can because “team work makes the dream work”.
Those wanting to support the community during this time, can reach out to the Wot-if? Trust via Facebook here.
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