Metro appeals to food parcel recipients to practice social distancing
The community is urged not to hand out food parcels to the needy to avoid a frenzy.
The Tshwane metro has called on those who gather to receive food parcels or donations to practice social distancing and to wear masks, where possible.
This after photographs and video footage, shared on social media this week, depicted hundreds of hungry and poor residents collecting food parcels in areas such as Mooiplaas and Olievenhoutbosch.
“The Tshwane metro police and authorities are on scene whenever these handouts are done to ensure that people practice social distancing,” said Lindela Mashigo, spokesperson for the Tshwane metro.
“However, it is difficult and we do understand that the residents are hungry and don’t often have the means to wear masks.”
Mashigo said it was vital that all residents adhered to the requirements around the wearing of masks which came into effect on Friday.
“All residents should wear masks at all times.”
Likewise, those who donate food parcels were also urged to do so via a reputable organisation.
“Although help is needed, we urge the community to do so via registered charity organisations,” JP le Roux, spokesperson for Monitor Net told Rekord.
Le Roux said there is an increased desire from residents to help the less fortunate in these times.
“However, this can lead to various other problems including breaking the social distancing rule and a sudden spike in crime.”
Le Roux explained some of the food parcels were dropped off on the R55 near the informal settlement.
He said those staying at the settlement didn’t only flock to the road to get a food parcel but in some instances, there were not enough parcels to go around.
This resulted in residents stealing from one another.
Dropping off parcels next to the R55 was also dangerous.
“We urged the community and well-doers to rather join forces with local organisations to help those in need.”
Erick Becker, spokesperson for Brinant Security, said in some instances residents were jumping in front of cars to ask for food.
Daryl Hardy, from Dare to Love organisation in Centurion, said the organisation had been hard at work to help the needy and vulnerable across Pretoria.
Hardy agreed the public should refrain from handing out parcels by themselves.
“Rather work via the various organisations who have been trained over the years to deal with these vulnerable people.
“If you do not have experience, handing out food to a group of hungry people willy-nilly can quickly result in a frenzy.”
ALSO READ: Thousands of Mooiplaas residents get food hampers
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