With its resources stretched, GOTG appeals for assistance in responding to disasters across SA

JOHANNESBURG - Humanitarian aid group Gift of the Givers (GOTG) said its resources had been stretched thin as it responded to disasters in parts of the country.

The non-profit organisation (NPO) said it was inundated with calls for help following devastating floods in the Eastern Cape and the Western Cape.

It’s also on the frontline in KwaZulu-Natal after the northern regions of the province were hit by a tornado.

Several people have died in these three provinces, while the damage to infrastructure is already estimated to run in the millions of rands.

Government, community groups, NPOs, and businesses have all joined forces to help pick up the pieces.

While Gift of the Givers has vowed to continue providing aid, spokesperson, Ali Sablay, said the damage had taken a toll on the group.

"All credit to our team that are still working non-stop to assist the communities, but in terms of resources, we are stretched in terms of blankets, mattresses, and personal hygiene items.”

Sablay has appealed for more help for affected communities.

"South Africa is known for its ubuntu spirit, and we saw this spirit overflowing this week."

Inclement weather is expected to persist in some areas, sparking fears it could stall recovery efforts.