President Cyril Ramaphosa announced a 14-day extended lockdown that will see people staying home until the end of April.

While the move has been commended, it, unfortunately, comes with complications for struggling families.

The Witbank Muslim Jamaat invites the public to assist in extending its hand to help those who have no means of feeding their families during this time, with any amount of donations through their one bag maize meal distribution program.

One of the leaders of the program, Mr Farouk Arbee said their thoughtful gesture was inspired by the lockdown to reach out to the poor of the poorest and hopes to raise at least R10 000.

“It is a reality; the state can only do much. We are asking the community to help us support the poor by donating any amount, even if it is R60, to help us load a truck of maize meal. Up to so far, we have raised about R2 500,” he explained.

Farouk added that they will first consult with ward councillors to decide on a spot to meet for distribution.

“We will provide those who will be distributing the maize meals with gloves, masks, goggles and sanitisers to keep safe, also abide by the lockdown regulations. We will not be going from door-to-door but decide on a spot with the ward councillors where we will meet for distribution.”

The following are the details to make your donation.

Witbank Muslim Jamaat

• STANDARD BANK
• Account no: 030 017 491
• Branch code: 052 750
• Ref: C.19 m.meal

Feel free to contact any of The Witbank Muslim Jamaat leaders: Farouk Arbee: 082 786 4563, Hassan Osman: 082 452 3891 or Mubeen Khan: 079 515 0077.