Absa gives helping hand to Vosloorus feeding scheme

ABSA joined Gift of the Givers and Woolworths to help feed those affected by the Covid-19 pandemic in Vosloorus, with food donations yesterday.

A R1 million donation by Absa to Woolworths’ “Help Fill a Bag” initiative was made to assist poverty-stricken communities in South Africa.

Distribution in the Vosloorus, Ekurhuleni, community was made through Gift of the Givers yesterday.

Food parcels and care packs were distributed in Extension 28 to help in alleviating the food crisis in communities that have been affected by the negative impact the Covid-19 pandemic has had on the economy.

Many people have been battling to find employment. According to Statistics SA, the unemployment rate has increased by 1.8% to reach 34.4% this year. The negative effects of this have left many households in poverty.

Dr Imtiaz Sooliman of Gift of the Givers said: “Gift of the Givers Foundation

appreciates the generosity by Absa at this critical juncture in our history, when so many of our communities are suffering long-standing hunger. The global pandemic, unemployment, external economic factors, and the recent unrest have enhanced food insecurity in our country.

“Corporate intervention in dealing with the hunger crisis is critical as government resources are limited, given our economic challenges.

“This contribution by Absa should serve as an ideal precedent for other corporations operating in South Africa to come forward with similar initiatives.”

In addition to the aftermath of the pandemic, the looting which occurred KwaZulu-Natal and parts of Gauteng in July has left a dent in the country’s economy. Two shopping malls in Vosloorus were looted during the unrest.

After the unrest, Gift of the Givers rolled out 30 000 parcels. Sooliman said the foundation has been working diligently to reach out to priority areas timeously.