Humanitarian relief organisation Gift of the Givers (GOTG) say they have seen an outpouring of support from ordinary South Africans in responding to the plight of foreign nationals affected by the recent outbreak of xenophobia in Kwa-Zulu Natal. Since the start of xenophobia tensions two weeks ago, 8500 foreign nationals have been displaced. The relief agency reported a huge upsurge in the displacement of migrants in Phoenix and Verulam on Wednesday night with more than 2000 foreign nationals gathering at the local police stations.

GOTG’s distribution drive has been carried out at the Isipingo and Chatsworth refugee centre’s assisting hundreds of families. Humanitarian support has been provided in the form of cooked meals, cereals, baby food, bottled water, plastic buckets, diapers, sanitary pads, blankets, personal hygiene items, disinfectants and clothes. Some of the refugees were moved to safety from their homes to the centres.

“Many foreign nationals have indicated that they have lost hope and faith in South Africa and have lost all respect for people who they stood by during the liberation struggle. We are preparing aid packages for those who may journey onwards to their home countries,” said Dr Imtiaz Sooliman.

GOTG’s Dr Hashi has been on site from early Thursday morning assessing the essential needs whilst Salim Sayed, KZN Project Manager, prepared tons of supplies for distribution both at Verulam and Phoenix.

In the event that violence spreads to Johannesburg, GOTG has already been granted a land by the Johannesburg City Council to establish an emergency refugee facility. Sooliman said tents and all essential supplies are on standby.

Unilever has come forward with massive contributions for the purpose and there have been multiple enquiries from others who want to assist. Gift of the Givers has already distributed R400 000 of supplies with another R1 million on immediate standby.

Those locally and internationally wanting to support this campaign can do so through cash donations into Gift of the Givers, Standard Bank, Pietermaritzburg, Account No. 052137228, Branch Code 057525. Details toll free on 0800786911. VOC