Local NPO Ripples for Change are doing their part to help the struggling community during the lockdown, by donating food parcels to Cambridge township residents. “We are dedicated to finding new strategies for dealing with challenges faced by rural communities,” Ripples for Change director Galit Cohen said.
“We strive to strengthen communities and offer new opportunities to individuals through
a variety of programmes; an early childhood development programme, capacity building and community support.”
In response to the Covid-19 pandemic, Ripples for Change has partnered with Childline and the Border Kei Chamber of Business to launch a new campaign to provide food packages.
“Ripples for Change had been supporting the Cambridge township before with various donations. We knew this community would struggle in these difficult times and therefore, after receiving donations of rice and soy mix from Rise Against Hunger, and egg pulp from Nulaid Eggs, we contacted the community and offered our help,” Cohen said.
“We have also received donations towards the food parcels from Sundale, Dynamic Brands and Shelford. I want to thank all our donors, Border Kei Chamber of Business, Contralesa and Lamont Marketing for supporting our programmes .
“I also want to convey a message of strength to all those who currently struggle: you are not forgotten, there are many people and organisations that work tirelessly to help you in these difficult times.” Phiwe Mkonwana, of Grace Community Church in Cambridge,
said communities were interconnected,with everyone affected by what was happening in their community.
“All of us were touched when we saw our neighbours and friends that are struggling with food. “That ’s when we alerted Ripples for Change about the living conditions in the township,” she said.
Mkonwana said when the lockdown started, the community combined their resources to respond to children and families who they support.
“A list was generated from each area on a weekly basis and the church raised funds within its members and has also called on other pastors and churches in the area to come assist.
“We are highly grateful of the support we have been getting in making a difference in people’s lives ,” Mkonwana said.
