Alpha Care Family is calling on residents in Pretoria east and surrounding communities to assist vulnerable households through its ongoing drive to collect non-perishable food and pet care items for families facing hardship.

An initiative, which operates on a ‘neighbour helping a neighbour’ approach, provides essential support to between 11 and 20 families every month who may be experiencing financial difficulties, illness, or domestic violence.

Spokesperson for Alpha Care Family, Mariska Raubenheimer, said there are currently four to five families in urgent need of assistance.

“We’re reaching out with a heartfelt request to support families in our community who are currently going through difficult times.

We are collecting non-perishable food donations to help us put together essential food parcels,” said Raubenheimer.

Community members who can assist are encouraged to donate items such as tinned foods, including: baked beans, fish, vegetables, soup and tomatoes, maize meal or rice, pasta, instant noodles, packet soups, instant porridge, peanut butter and spreads, lentils, split peas, dried beans, cooking oil, salt, long-life milk, tea, coffee, sugar, and biscuits or small treats for children.

She said basic toiletries such as soap, toothpaste, and sanitary products may also be donated to further assist families in maintaining daily hygiene.

“The initiative is currently not accepting monetary donations but is instead appealing for essential goods that can be distributed directly to families and pet owners in need,” said Raubenheimer.

The outreach unit previously operated under the Alpha Security Forum before branching out due to an increased demand for assistance within the community.

Raubenheimer said in addition to supporting families, the organisation has highlighted an urgent need for dog food and pet care products.

Volunteers assist pet owners who may be unable to provide for their animals due to illness, hospitalisation, or financial strain by supplying food, treats, blankets, and other necessary items.

“We do not keep the animals in our care. Our dedicated volunteers go out into the community to assist pet owners who are going through difficult times,” she said.

“We support them by providing dog food and essential pet care items to help alleviate stress and ensure their pets are still fed and cared for during these challenging periods,” she said.

Donations can be dropped off at 370 Erlon Street in Die Wilgers. Residents are requested to call ahead before making a drop-off to ensure arrangements can be made to receive donations.

For more information or to arrange a donation, contact Karien Elkins on 079 882 1130.

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