Madam – Last year there was a story in the newspaper about a resident who froze to death on the streets of Newcastle.
This year, before winter starts, I want to appeal to the community to spare a thought for those who do not have the basics to survive the cold months.
There is so much you can do to contribute, without spending a cent. Donate old clothes and blankets to shelters or organisations that help the destitute. Join local organisations to help them help the needy.
You could also, in your own capacity, set up a food drive to collect simple foods for those who do not even get one meal a day.
Last year the paper ran a winter campaign and it truly warmed my heart to see this community stand together to help communities and people who may have died without their intervention.
From my work with these type of campaigns, I drew up a list of things that could help out the poor, homeless and needy this winter:
– Canned food (baked beans, tuna etc.)
– Toothpaste and toothbrushes
– Soups
– Soap
– Shoes, especially takkies or old boots
– Warm jackets, jerseys, or long sleeved shirts
– Underwear for men, women and children
– Socks – this is VERY important!
– Any old pots or pans
– Scarves and gloves
– Bread
– Coffee, milk powder, sugar, teabags.
Newcastle, every tiny bit helps. Raid your cupboards for groceries you may not need or use anymore, and do the right thing by donating.
Lots of supermarkets run winter campaigns, so please support them. Also, places like Newcastle Crisis Centre and Tembelihle could use your help. Ask the media if you need to get into contact with them.
While the rest of the country and the world is in the throes of political instability, climate change, war, famine and more, let’s do our bit as humans and extend a hand to those in need. It’s the right thing to do,
Human of Newcastle
