The Rand West City Local Municipality (RWCLM) has assured the poor and those who are less fortunate that all efforts are being made to assist them with food and clothing during lockdown.

Brenda Mahuma, RWCLM Executive Mayor said they have partnered with various organisations, businesses and even the Gauteng Department of Social Development to alleviate poverty during the crisis.

“It became quite clear to us as the municipality that the lockdown would bring challenges, one of them being the people who live from hand to mouth,” Mahuma said.

Among those the municipality partnered with recently is the West Rand Muslim Association that came to the rescue of the needy.

“Through this partnership we are able to donate food hampers that can last beneficiaries a month. We are continuously identifying the areas in Rand West City where these food parcels can bring great relief, and we are trying to strike a good balance among those who are desperate,” Mahuma said.

She said the Pillar of Strength will also help to establish a soup kitchen to feed the needy within the community on an ongoing basis.

Mahuma further called on businesses to assist with the project and help those who are in distress.

The mayor also thanked Aranda for donating blankets, and the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) from Gold Fields for having donated mattresses to shelters for the homeless.

“Although there is still much more to be done, we are trying our best to ensure people are taken care of during this difficult time. We would like to thank everyone who has been part of the project,” Mahuma said.