How To Contribute During Covid & Lockdowns in SA

South Africa has had its fair share of knocks over the years, off the top of my head I can think of Eskom's load shedding, Cape Towns water shortage, and many government projects and state-owned enterprises running out of funding. Despite these issues, we've had, we've continued rally as a nation, but in 2020 we've seen our biggest challenge yet.

South Africa, like many countries, did expect nor prepared for what the COVID-19 lockdowns would do to our country. Economic activity had hit all-time lows up until recently when regulations began to ease.

South African businesses are starting to get back on their feet, but these are the robust ones, the lucky ones, many companies didn't make it through 2020. Job losses are rampant, and slowing economic growth means consumers tend to tighten their belts, spending less meaning money doesn't change hands as quickly as they did in the past.

Support during the pandemic in South Africa

These behavioural changes have lead to more people feeling destitute and needing help. More South Africans are looking towards donations and grants to survive, and it's up to all of us to support these initiatives.

If you're looking for ways to help the less fortunate during these challenging times, then here are five possible ways you can get involved in either NGO's or private charity programs.

1. The solidarity fund

The solidarity fund was set up by the South African government as a rapid response vehicle after lockdowns went into effect. The platform is used to solicit funds from various individuals and institutions, and R3.2 Billion has been pledged so as of January 28 2021.

The funds' aim prevents the spread of the disease and to detect outbreaks and provide care for and support those in need.

If you want more information or wish to donate to the fund, visit their website here.

2. CoronaCare for South Africa

CoronaCare for South Africa launched on 16 March 2020 as a matchmaking platform that connects individuals to NPOs who support those in need as a result of the Covid-19 outbreak. They have partnered with Afrika Tikkun, LivCurious, Kunye by Feed SA, Uthando, The Base and Eden Schools so far and are running a crowdfunding initiative via Backabuddy.

Please find out more about their project on the CoronaCare South Africa's website or donate via their crowdfunding page on BackaBuddy.

3. Feed SA

Feed SA has been around since the year 2000, in in the last two decades its primary mission has been to feed, educate and help develop underprivileged communities. In the wake of 2020, the organisation has created a Covid-19 Action Plan to help those who will be hit hardest due to the virus.

You can donate directly on their website with the help of PayFast

4. UNICEF South Africa

Unicef South Africa is no stranger to helping local communities and focuses on promoting the rights and wellbeing of every child. South Africa has many children who live in informal settlements and face adverse conditions with limited resources. Through the Little Hands Matter campaign. Unicef SA hopes to build "EaziWash" handwashing stations in these settlements to safeguard the hygiene and health of children and their families.

You can donate via the Unicef SA website

5. Masks For Humanity

Masks For Humanity launched recently as the need for masks far outstripped the supply, especially in underprivileged areas. They aim to provide struggling communities and institutions with FPP2 face masks in South Africa. They have a key focus on serving school teachers, nursing homes, medical workers, and frontline workers.

Work in association with the Jumpstarter platform they can accept donations from the public. They need approximately 53 500 masks to hit their first project goals, and the number is growing each day!

Should you wish to find out more or donate, you can check out their website.

Any projects we should include?

Do you know any local projects accepting donations that should be included on this list? Let us know by contacting us directly or leaving a comment below and we'll add it to our list

Are you looking to promote your NGO or project?

South African NGO's can create your free business listing on nichemarket. The more information you provide about your business, the easier it will be for your customers to find you online. Registering with nichemarket is easy; all you will need to do is head over to our sign up form and follow the instructions.

If you require a more detailed guide on how to create your profile or your listing, then we highly recommend you check out the following articles. 

• How to create a nichemarketer profile 
• How to create a nichemarket business listing 

Recommended reading

If you enjoyed this post and have a little extra time to dive deeper down the rabbit hole, why not check out the following posts about NPO's and good causes.

• How To Get Google Grants For Non-profit Organizations
• Why Venture Philanthropy Can Thrive In A Decentralised Economy
• Why South African Non-Profits Should Consider Accepting Cryptocurrency Donations
• 8 Worthy South African Causes Who Could Use Some of Your Festive Joy
• How NGOs Can Get Donations Via Instagram

Tags: Charity, Social Programs