Ways to help your community this winter

Winter is by far the hardest season for a large portion of the South African population who are living outside the formal housing sector.
Though one might not have the means to help dramatically, there are still many small ways to help those in need this winter.
According to the 2016 Community Survey by Stats SA, 2 193 968 South Africans live in informal dwellings, defined as a dwelling or shack in a backyard or squatter settlement, and 142 270 falls under the ‘other dwelling’ category, defined as caravan, tent, and other dwellings in informal locations.
This means that roughly 14 per cent of the population is living outside of the formal housing sector. This statistic is more alarming during the rainy season, where many will need to face the cold without the necessary food, shelter or warmth.
To assist those who are struggling during this time, RE/MAX runs an annual Coats & Cans Drive where their network and members of the community are encouraged to drop off warm clothing and non-perishable food items, as well as pet blankets and pet food at RE/MAX offices across the country.
Collections will be dropped off at various NPOs, shelters and animal welfare organisations across the country.
“Though the problem of homelessness and hunger may seem overwhelming, the misconception is that we have no power to improve the situation. The truth is that if we all contribute in whatever way we can, we will soon start making a noticeable difference,” said Adrian Goslett, regional director and CEO of RE/MAX of Southern Africa.
Locally, you can drop your donations at RE/MAX All Stars at 81 Michelle Avenue, Randhart, or visit www.remax.co.za for more information.

For those without a participating RE/MAX office nearby, RE/MAX of Southern Africa suggests a few alternative solutions for giving back during this winter season:
Buy shelter tickets
To help ensure that everyone has a warm place to sleep at night, locate your nearest shelter and see how you can help support them. Most shelters charge a nominal fee to those who use their services. Your donations can help subsidise this fee. Alternatively, the shelters might need some extra volunteers or might be looking for physical donations of food, clothing or bedding.
Pack out and donate to charity shops
We all have items that we no longer want or need. Take a moment this winter to unpack your cupboards so that you can donate these unwanted items to local charity stores or NPOs that make these items available to those who desperately need the help. To find your nearest charity shop, you can visit the CharitySA website at www.charitysa.co.za/charity-shops.

Find a feeding scheme to support
There are a whole host of local feeding schemes around the country. Take a moment to find one nearest to you and ask how you might be able to help. Some feeding schemes make it as simple as making a few extra sandwiches a week or donating a pocket of potatoes.
Depending on the organisation, there will either be a local drop-off point or somebody from the organisation will come to collect your donations.