South African Rotary clubs joined forces to make a significant impact in the lives of those affected by Cyclone Idai, they raised over R200k in 4 days.
Cape Town, South Africa – Rotary clubs from across South Africa joined forces to ensure that the people of Malawi, Mozambique and Zimbabwe have safe drinking water after the Cyclone Idai.
Cyclone Idai has left over 1 million people displaced and at risk of water-borne diseases like cholera and typhoid due to contaminated drinking water. The hope was to raise funds towards providing water filters which can serve a family of four.
A BackaBuddy crowdfund was launched four days ago so that the public could get involved in helping the people who were affected by the cyclone. Not only did the public get a chance to lend a helping hand, but many Rotary clubs also pledged much-needed funds to the cause.
The money raised is being used to send a consignment of water filters to some of the worst affected areas in Zimbabwe. A water filter for a family of 4 costs only R600.00. This means over 300 families will receive the tools to prevent drinking contaminated water.
“In addition, we will be sending basic medical supplies for which there is a desperate need. These include surgical gloves, bandages, syringes, plasters and sutures to ensure that the wounded can be attended to. Hospitals and medical facilities are struggling to cope thanks to a lack of basic equipment.”
Now that the R200,000.00 has been raised, the crowdfund has upped its goal to R300,000.00, and it is well on its way to reaching that goal. If you would like to contribute, you can do so here.
“Over R200 000.00 raised in 4 days. Our truck filled with water filters leaves for Zim on Friday morning. No matter what, as Africans, we stand together in each other’s time of need.
Please share this post and help us raise additional funds to send another truck with much-needed food and medical supplies. No amount is too small!” – Shelley Finch, Rotary District is 9350
Various Rotary Clubs have made the biggest difference to the fund reaching its goal. The following clubs made donations:
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- Kromboom Rotary – R5 000.00
- Hout Bay Rotary – R5 000.00
- Waterfront Rotary – R7 800.00
- Rotary Safe Water Fund – R17 000.00
- Luderitz Rotary – R10 000.00
- Claremont Rotary – R105 000.00
- Table Bay Rotary – R 6 000.00
- Bellville Rotaract – R1 200.00
- Swakopmund Rotary – R10 000.00
- Kirstenbosch Rotary – R24 000.00
You can watch Shelley Finch’s plea for public assistance below.
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