Gift of the Givers tackles hunger relief this Mandela Day

Gift of the Givers Foundation highlighted the plight of those in the sports, arts, culture and entertainment industry who are suffering during the global pandemic on Friday last week during its Mandela Day celebration.

“This has been a busy period for us working around the clock to ensure and attempt to bring hunger relief to so many needy families who were suffering even before the virus took its toll and before lockdown was implemented,” said Roslyn Toontas from Gift of Givers.

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Toontas said Gift of the Givers has, over the last three months, assisted freelancers, artists, gym owners, and more who have been adversely affected by their inability to work and support their families.

She added that the organisation could barely keep their heads above water and Gift of the Givers has been able to thus far help them with some food relief.

“Gift of the Givers felt the best way to highlight their plight is to call a few individuals of different talents together in celebration of Mandela Day,” she said.

The guest of honour at the event was Nocawe Mafu, the deputy minister of Sports, Arts and Culture.

“The event was an intimate gathering with strict Covid-19 protocols in place, all those in attendance had to wear masks, complete a register, be screened and take a temperature reading,” said Toontas.

Gift of the Givers will also be working with SAFM to distribute 550 food packs, blankets, hygiene packs and masks to Haven of Hope in Centurion.

Toontas said teams will be distributing frozen chicken, sweets, food packs, sanitary items and bulk food items to many feeding centres that were supported throughout the year to bring some relief to the most vulnerable.

“Many breadwinners have either lost their jobs, been put on short time or have had to take salary cuts, which has added to their suffering,” she said.