Operation Hunger helps ensure people stay healthy during lockdown

National non-profit organisation, Operation Hunger recently launched its #feedafamily campaign to help feed the less fortunate while fighting against Covid-19.

Established in 1980, Operation Hunger has a history of positive action in the fight against malnutrition in South Africa. The organisation has reached over 2.4 million beneficiaries and is ramping up its fundraising efforts to help the vulnerable during the Covid-19 epidemic. One of the distribution centres will assist community members in Ivory Park and Tembisa.

Clement Summerton, the national project development manager, said that their monthly feeding scheme which provides for roughly 5 000 families is under immense pressure due to various challenges because of the pandemic. “The Operation Hunger feeding scheme has 43 distribution points in deep rural areas and sprawling informal settlements with little or no basic services. Our NPO has the infrastructure in place to help thousands of additional families which is why they have launched the #feedafamily campaign.

“The Operation Hunger #feedafamily campaign enables anyone to donate from R200 on the Operation Hunger website towards a food and sanitising pack for a vulnerable family. Once a donation is received, dry bulk foods, tinned foods and sanitary items are purchased and packed at a local supermarket. With the help of volunteers the packs are distributed to beneficiaries identified by local relief committees. Each beneficiary will sign on receipt of the food parcel.”

Summerton explained that they have added sanitising products to their traditional food parcel, and placed a big emphasis on flattening the curve. “It is a difficult balancing act of feeding the country and fighting coronavirus but our volunteers and staff have been nothing short of amazing.

“We are calling on the public to help us feed 10 000 additional families. Anyone interested in getting involved can visit the Operation Hunger website.”

Details: Operation Hunger www.operationhunger.org.za

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