After the NSRI was dealt a storm, ocean-loving communities proved to be their lighthouse of hope.
Fish Hoek, South Africa (05 July, 2023) — About a month ago, the NSRI shared some tough news. One of their life-saving vessels — a jetRIB — had been stolen from the Strandfontein base in False Bay.
Later, it was reported that the rescue craft had been found and allegedly torched. Considering how much fundraising goes into securing a jetRIB in the first place for volunteer organisations like the NSRI as well as how many lives it’s responsible for saving, the loss was felt all over Cape Town.
Communities were disheartened, upset and angry. But in true South African spirit, those emotions melted into something else: a plan to help.
Over the weekend, a group of ocean lovers rallied to show the NSRI their support. Regardless of how they interact with the sea, everyone from kayakers to swimmers, surfskiers and SUPers decided to pitch in to help the heroes for a change. Soon, it became a big event led by even bigger hearts.
“Ocean disciplines are often separate, here they came together,” shared Clare Louise Thomas who shared the story with Good Things Guy.
Thanks to the massive community effort hosted by the Fish Hoek Beach Sports Club, over R60 000 has been raised for the NSRI. 100% of the Lighthouse Fundraiser’s proceeds will go to the NSRI to invest in what they need to keep doing the work they do. In the same stroke of importance, morale was raised along the coast once again!
“There was no race, there was no winner of the event. It was entirely to celebrate the NSRI, thank them for all they do and fundraise what we could.”—Clare Louise Thomas.
And, doesn’t it just go to show—for the one bad thing that happened, there were a swarm of people ready to make things better.
You can contribute to the NSRI via GivenGain or contact Clare at clarelouisethomas@gmail.com to find out more about how to help sponsor or support the NSRI’s Station 16.
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