The coronavirus pandemic has had a major impact on the world as we know it, pushing health care systems to the brink of collapse, forcing many countries into a recession, and leading to a staggering number of lives lost. In South Africa, vulnerable communities are feeling the brunt of the pandemic. Many of the beneficiaries we support will also feel the financial impact of this crisis and will need assistance. In addition, many workers are now forced to stay home during the 21-day lockdown and even more left without an income at this time.

To support those in need, the greater Stellenbosch community has come together to provide social support to vulnerable community members during the country’s lockdown.

#StellenboschUnite is a collaboration between Stellenbosch Municipality, Stellenbosch University, Visit Stellenbosch (representing civil society), the Stellenbosch Civil Advocacy Network (which represents the non-profit sector), and the Greater Stellenbosch Development Trust. Through this initiative, the organisations are reaching out to the greater Stellenbosch community for financial donations that will be used to make up food parcels for families in need in the communities of Cloetesville, Devon Valley, farming communities, Groendal, Idas Valley, Jamestown, Kayamandi, Klapmuts, Kylemore, La Motte Settlement, Langerug, Lanquedoc, Mooiwater, Mountainview, Pniël, Raithby, Vlottenburg and Wemmershoek. The food parcels are intended for a family of four and will consist of maize meal, rice, soup mix, packets of soup powder, tins of baked beans, salt and sunlight soap. The distribution of the packages will be handled by Feeding in Action, Her Voice, Kuyasa, Love to Give, Pebbles and Usiko. #StellenboschUnite will require R250 000 each week to make this initiative a success.

Bergzicht Training and Development supports this initiative and want to salute our municipality and all the institutions and organisations that have come onboard to ensure that vulnerable residents in the greater Stellenbosch area do not go hungry during this time.

For more info, visit #StellenboschUnite or mail them at give@stellenboschunite.org.

Download a pdf leaflet that provides more details on this initiative.