CoCT appeals for the public's help with disaster relief efforts as winter settles in

CAPE TOWN - The City of Cape Town is appealing for the public's help with disaster relief efforts as winter settles in.
 
The Disaster Risk Management Centre has set up donation drop-off points and designated seven fire stations for possible flare-ups.

They include Constantia, Goodwood, Hout Bay, Lakeside, Roeland Street, Strand and Wynberg.
 
Items for donation include clothing for all ages, non-perishable food products including rice, maize meal, tinned fish, tinned beans and baby formula as well as personal hygiene products.
 
Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, JP Smith, said, "We have noted a stark increase in fire and flood impacts in recent years. Our disaster relief partners are doing sterling work under very trying circumstances, but they need help, and that is why the Disaster Risk Management Centre is asking for donations that will be channelled directly to affected families, or via our NGO partners."
 
Smith says humanitarian relief is challenging, with complexities around mandates and centralisation of funding at a national level that often results in delays.
 
"The City is trying to overcome the obstacles, as the need for humanitarian relief during disaster can't be overlooked. Your donation to one of our City drop-off points, or directly to your nearest NGO [non-governmental organisation], will make a world of difference"