Red Cross still making a difference after 73 years

The South African Red Cross Society (Benoni branch) is one of the oldest organisations in Benoni that provides a wide range of crucial services.

Based in Benoni for the past 73 years following its establishment in 1949, the humanitarian organisation was founded on the needs of the community.

According to the branch manager, Phachane Tabola, at the time the service of disaster response was needed. Phachane, who joined the organisation in 2008 as a volunteer, said they are trained in first aid and disaster response.

The organisation has six board members (governance) and 114 members around the East Rand.

“There is a membership fee, which differs according to age. Members undergo skills development and become first responders in their communities to assist at disasters or wherever else help is needed. Being a member is not for personal gain but to help the community,” she said.

The organisation runs various programmes, such as youth development, health testing services, disaster management and organisational development.

“Youth development forms part of peer education. Volunteers visit schools to conduct health talks, especially in light of the high rate of pregnancies recorded in schools.

“We also render our services to the youth who have dropped out of school. To prevent the transmission of HIV, we test about 2 200 people monthly through our pop-up tents in communities. When our clients have tested positive we refer them to the nearest clinics,” Phachane said.

Under youth development, she added there is also a day care centre, which was established to elevate human suffering by caring for children from impoverished communities. However, some of the children are paying fees as it is a private day care.

Phachane said the programme has been funded by the Department of Health since 2017. Also included in the health service offered is screening for TB and STIs.

With regard to disaster management, the organisation reduces the impact of disasters by issuing the necessary logistics to the victims of a disaster. They also educate the community on disaster mitigation to ensure adequate response to disaster situations.

Phachane added that the Red Cross’s most pressing need is funding, as the only funding they get is from the department of health.

“We generate funds otherwise through fundraising and from our national office. We are also in need of donations, such as clothing, non-perishable foods, hygiene packs, baby formulas and mattresses,” said Phachane.

Community members from the ages of 10 to 65 years are encouraged to become a member of the SA Red Cross Benoni branch.
Donations may be dropped off at 7 O’Reilly Merry Street, Rynfield, or contact them on 011 425 2307.

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