The gift of giving
The University of the Third Age hosted a talk at the Northfield Methodist Church on March 13.
Their guest speaker was Ahmed Bahm from Gift of the Givers for
Bahm gave a background of Gift of the Givers, an non-government organisation (NGO) that responds to disaster-affected areas both nationally and internationally.
Established 26 years ago, Gift of the Givers has about 49 projects up and running.
Rescue and response teams have gone to areas that have been affected by storms, fires and floods.
“From the time we hear about a disaster-stricken area we deploy a team within 24 hours,” Bahm said.
“We have built 39 boreholes and place Jojo tanks to help sustain communities that may need water.”
Apart from providing relief in disaster management, the NGO provides medical assistance to victims and veterinary services to animals in disaster zones.
Bahm asked, “If we don’t help Africa, who will help Africa?”
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Gift of the Givers built the first mobile hospital in South Africa and plans to build more.
The national and international disaster coordinator said these hospitals will have operating theatres to treat patients in emergency situations.
Working with a variety of sponsors, Gift of the Givers has been able to build branches all over the world.
Bahm said there were two ways in which a person can contribute towards the cause.
“People can volunteer their time or they can make a donation,” he said.
“It warms my heart to see how giving people can be with the little that they have.”
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