The catastrophic flooding that claimed more than 440 lives in KwaZulu-Natal, and devastated parts of the province, has brought misery to thousands of people. To help with relief efforts, The Ford Motor Company Fund has provided a $25 000 (R370 000) disaster relief grant to the aid organisation Gift of the Givers to assist communities worst-hit by the floods.
The Ford Motor Company Fund is the philanthropic arm of Ford Motor Company and provides access to resources and opportunities that build equity and empower underserved and underrepresented communities to reach their highest potential.
Neale Hill, President of Ford Motor Company Africa says, “The scale of this disaster has been almost beyond description. We knew immediately that we had to help the victims, and Gift of the Givers has shown that it’s agile and effective in dealing with such tragedies.”
Hill explains that the R370 000 grant will be used for much needed humanitarian relief aid to flood stricken communities. The aid, which comprises food parcels, water, mattresses, blankets and care packs, is being distributed to communities displaced and stricken by the devastating deluge of water. Gift of the Givers will, in addition, provide dozens of food hampers to displaced Ford employees in KwaZulu Natal. Ford is further assisting dealerships in the affected areas directly through grocery vouchers and fresh water – and has provided vehicles to organisations needing mobility to provide relief.
Hill adds, “Immediately when the news of the disaster broke, our employees and those in the broader Ford family were anxious to know how they could help, so we’re encouraging them to donate directly to Gift of the Givers as well. It’s a drive that’s quickly gained momentum and one we’re proud of.”
Hill notes that disaster-management authorities say the full financial and socioeconomic impact of the flooding is still to be fully established: “What we do know is that every ounce of help is needed and that it will take time to rebuild the province and lives of those affected. We’re proud to help where we can.”
Badr Kazi, director of the Gift of the Givers Foundation says, “The generous donation endowed by Ford is earmarked for much-needed humanitarian relief aid to flood-stricken communities and families in KZN. We thank Ford for their continued support and empathy toward the plight of our most vulnerable.”
