South Africa-based Pick n Pay Group has committed to donate food worth R200Â 000 to aid in the efforts of helping the millions of people who have been affected by Cyclone Idai, one of the worse cyclones to hit the southern African region since 2000.
The Cyclone has caused devastation in Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Malawi with widespread flooding. Many people are left without food, water or shelter.
Cyclone Idai has created what is being called “inland oceans extending for miles and milesâ resulting in emergency responders and humanitarian organizations battling to reach vast affected parts of the three countries, especially remote areas.
Gareth Ackerman, Chairman of Pick n Pay says: âWe are devasted by at the destruction caused, and the huge impact on the people of all three countries. We hope these supplies provide some relief to those who are in desperate need of assistance.
âOur stores in Zimbabwe have also been mobilised and staff on the ground are assisting local communities wherever they can with rescue relief. To date they have donated nearly 10 tonnes of food, consisting of mealie meal, sugar and kapenta. Our donation from South Africa will add to these efforts.
âWe encourage any other groups who can assist to get involved so we can help these communities rebuild,â says Ackerman.
TM Pick n Pay is also working with local businesses and banks to establish a fund to raise money to help in rebuilding housing structures for the affected communities. TM Pick n Pay have set aside an additional $50 000 for this relief fund.
If youâd like to support the Cyclone Idai relief efforts, you can make a donation at any Pick n Pay till point or the Smart Shopper kiosks or app.
