More than R1.4-million raised to see North Coast spaza shops restored

Fundraising efforts by a Salt Rock non-profit could see all iLembe spaza shops return to business soon.

American-turned-Salt Rock local, Kent VanderYacht, who started local non-profit Hearts that Hope with his wife Lyndall, has become a shining beacon of hope for many small business owners after he witnessed first-hand the devastation of July’s unrest.

Through the Stock a Shop initiative, Kent rallied local businesses and a few overseas investors to support it with the goal of seeing these stores reopened, restocked and in some cases, repaired.

So far more than 120 North Coast spaza shops have been returned to business across KwaDukuza.

More than R1.4-million has been raised and about 70 shops are still waiting to be helped.

“We have received invaluable support from Investec’s Angel Network,” said Kent, who said they were in a position to distribute a number of vouchers to businesses as a result.

At a voucher distribution meeting held at Christ Church last week Thursday in Shayamoya, Kent said 48 vouchers were allocated.

“It was an amazing morning. Each voucher is valued at R7 500 and can be redeemed to buy goods to restock affected stores.

Meanwhile, Hearts that Hope is in talks with a number of major brands in order to aid a further 200 spaza shop owners.

This will mean that all iLembe-based spaza shops could receive aid.

Already funding has been secured for the aid of 50 additional stores.

To find out how you can assist Hearts that Hope, visit heartsthathope.com.

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