WATCH: MEC Lesufi receives emergency food relief for Gauteng

This is the central warehouse in Reuven, South of Johannesburg, where the relief items are received and then distributed to all the regional food banks in Gauteng.

Ward 124 councillor Mongameli Mnyameni organised the distribution of the food parcels in his ward.

He also mentioned that they are organising food parcels for those who are not working and living in informal settlements.

“Most people in these informal settlements recycle and that’s how they earn a living; however, because of the lockdown it is impossible to do so.

“I then spoke to the social development department and MMC for Environment, Infrastructure and Services Mpho Moerane to intervene and give the food parcels to the people.

“The response from the people is positive; however, I have to emphasise that it is only those people who are on chronic medication and the unemployed. Those who are working are not allowed to get these food parcels.

“It is important that people must understand that this pandemic doesn’t choose race or colour, or whether somebody has money or is poor, everybody can get it.

“The community must take part in doing their best and protecting themselves and curbing the spread of the pandemic.

“Wash your hands regularly and use sanitisers. I’ve spoken to social development and health departments to bring sanitisers to these informal settlements,” he said.

Manager at Believers Care Society (BCS) in Turffontein Alex Ihem said their offices will be helping in Johannesburg’s food bank. They will be managing the food bank on behalf of the Gauteng Province.

“The donation is received from companies on behalf of social development. Regional food banks come and collect for their regions. BCS does not give to individuals except homeless shelters and other sick and vulnerable. That happens through referral list from the province,” he said.

It’s NOT illegal to take a break! The glove must just move away from my face @gpgSocDev @Abramjee @Steve_Mabona pic.twitter.com/USS1I8gjB4

— Panyaza Lesufi (@Lesufi) April 6, 2020

Notice: Coronavirus reporting at Caxton Local Media aims to combat fake news

Dear reader,
As your local news provider, we have the duty of keeping you factually informed on Covid-19 developments. As you may have noticed, mis- and disinformation (also known as “fake news”) is circulating online. Caxton Local Media is determined to filter through the masses of information doing the rounds and to separate truth from untruth in order to keep you adequately informed. Local newsrooms follow a strict pre-publication fact-checking protocol. A national task team has been established to assist in bringing you credible news reports on Covid-19.
Readers with any comments or queries may contact National Group Editor Irma Green (irma@caxton.co.za) or Legal Adviser Helene Eloff (helene@caxton.co.za).