Ligstad still helping the needy

Although reactive services does not form part of Ligstad’s mission and vision, they were compelled to react to the immediate need of our community in extra-ordinary times.

“Although temporary in nature, it is but timely and much needed, since we have a number of families relying on outside help to survive,” explained Alida Jooste, social worker at Ligstad.

Food assistance to Ligstad families

The HELP Forum in Alberton is the vehicle assisting to coordinate the distribution of scarce resources within the community of Alberton. Duplication are thus prevented and the resources are like the proverbial two loaves of bread and five fishes that feeds the crowd.

Many valuable and specified financial contributions have been received from community members assisting Ligstad to top up the donations received from the forum. It enables them to provide nutritious food parcels on almost a weekly basis to 40 families. Parcels are delivered at the recipients’ homes. It is planned to continue with this service throughout the period of the Covid-19 crisis.

Should you wish to contribute, you are welcome to do so via EFT using the word “feeding” as reference.

Aftercare and playgroup

Even though there is no child or staff member on site at Ligstad, hard work is happening. The teachers of the playgroup have been continuously providing parents with class work electronically to do at home in order for them to continue learning.

Marné Barnard, head of the playgroup, receives videos and pictures from proud parents regularly showing off the work. Daniel Viljoen, at the head of the aftercare, is also in regular contact with the parents and getting everything in order for when they will be able to receive aftercare learners again. Parents facing challenges are referred to the social worker where needed.

“We also wish to thank Daniel for preparing our premises for the return of staff in due course,” said Alida.

GiG seniors reach out to Kinross Herberg

This group usually meets on Fridays and has an annual outreach that continued despite the lockdown.
Commemorating Cecelia Pfeiffer, a valued member who died several years ago, members make and donate products throughout the year to hand out at the beginning of winter to less fortunate seniors.
They outdid themselves this year by providing 438 beautifully packaged items to be donated to the seniors of Kinross Herberg.

“Due to the lockdown restrictions, we could not deliver it directly to the seniors, but Anna Theunissen and I delivered the items on May 8 to the home’s manager, who gratefully received it on behalf of the seniors,” said Alida. “Congratulations GiG members! You are wonderful stewards for Christ.”

Coronavirus vs Ligstad

• The playgroup and aftercare are still closed due to the lockdown.
• The group meetings of the seniors are still suspended for the time, but care is taken to stay in contact with the seniors and to render one-on-one services where needed.
• Ligstad’s social worker continues rendering emotional and social support services on appointment and can be contacted on 079 693 3666 to set up appointments.

Details for donations

Ligstad banking details:

Standard Bank, account holder – Ligstad NPC, account number – 371 328 934, branch code – 012342, branch name – Alberton.

As a registered NPO, Ligstad is able to provide donors with a Section 18A (2) receipt for tax purposes.

GALLERY: