Redhill animal NPO appeals for help after floods

LAST week, KZN Premier, Sihle Zikalala revealed that the overall cost of the damages from the recent KZN floods is R17bn.

The floods which led to more than 430 deaths also saw the destruction and damage to key infrastructure within the province.

However, the floods also negatively impacted various animal support organisations like Feeding the Furballs, run by Redhill resident Farrah Khan Maharajh.

The non-profit organisation (NPO) helps distribute and feed more than 550 animals from Eshowe to Underberg and also helps with sterilisation drives.

Also Read: Retailer donates supplies to communities affected by KZN floods

Maharajh’s home, often referred to by supporters as ‘Furballs Central’ was also impacted as the garage which stores food supplies was flooded.

“Mother nature took no prisoners with the heavy rains and floods. We lost power to our home and suffered major water damage. The garage where we store items that we distribute to other animal rescue organisations was also flooded. Despite the fact that all the items were on shelves, the water soon covered everything leading to the loss of supplies.

“Most of the food was spoiled by the water and I estimate we lost more than 100 kilograms worth of cat and dog food. We also had to incur financial costs to purchase a generator and buckets to stop the water from wrecking more of our supplies,” she explained.

Maharajh said the floods, like the KZN unrest in July last year, has left the NPO in a precarious position.

“It really was an unprecedented time and because of this our stocks were severely depleted. We are appealing to the community for help as we attempt to restock our reserves,” Maharajh said.

Also Read: SPCA and north Durban animal welfare organisation need your help

She added that any brand of food was welcomed.

“If anyone is willing to support our drive, we have two drop-off points in Durban North. One of them is inside the Kensington SPAR and the other is the Cellworx shop in the same centre. We are grateful to those who have reached out so far but we need all the help we can get. We have more details on our Facebook page should anyone wish to help or make monetary donations,” she said.