From the news desk

GOTG assists Orkney quake victims

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Volunteers from Gift of the Givers were on site on Tuesday to assist victims most affected by the earthquake destruction in Khuma and surrounding areas in the Orkney area. Orkney has been declared a state of disaster by the North West government after an earthquake hit the area last week. The 5.5 magnitude earthquake hit large parts of the area and damaged hundreds of homes, schools and clinics.

The aid agency’s Gauteng co-ordinator, Emily Thomas said they aimed to support those who were forced to leave their homes due to the after affects that left their home dilapidated and dangerous for human occupation. The relief organization assisted a thousand families by providing them with food parcels, hygiene packs, fresh vegetables and blankets.

“We wanted to also say to these people that we are with them in this suffering. We also brought with us roof sheeting and cement amongst other things to assist them in repairing their homes,” added Thomas.

They are hoping that their efforts will bring some sort of comfort to the victims of this quake, while they assess how better to assist the broader community of Orkney with building material.

“The people are still very much traumatised,” said Thomas.

GOTG are working alongside the South African Social Security agency (SASSA), the department of social development and the local government who has sent various counselling teams to the affected areas and schools. The organization will after Tuesday be making two more distributions, while the most affected are still being identified.

Thomas urged those who wish to donate to the plight of those affected by the earthquake do so by visiting their website: www.giftofthegivers.org or calling their offices on 033 3450163.

You can also make a contribution directly to their account Gift of the Givers, Standard Bank, Pietermaritzburg, Account No. 052137228, Branch Code 057525. VOC (Imogen Vollenhoven)


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