At least eight pregnant women and a new mother from Joe Slovo informal settlement in Langa were showered with gifts by the Islamic Relief South Africa Foundation on Thursday 12 May.
The handover took place at Nomonde crèche in Zone 23. The women received among other things baby growers, nappies, wet wipes, baby powder, baby jelly, surgical spirits, formula bottles, cotton wool, baby & adult soap, maternity pads, face cloths, vests, socks, mittens, beanies and pyjamas (for the Mom’s).
The mothers are among hundreds of people who lost their belongings during a fire in the area last month.
One of the recipients Luleka Njenjese thanked the foundation. She said the clothes will make a huge difference.
“I lost everything in the fire. I am depending on the stuff that is contributed by the community. Even now, I don’t have a place to stay. I’m living with my family members,” said Njenjese, who is seven months pregnant. She urged other local business people to support them.
Islamic Relief SA project manager Samiullah Parker stated that they were contacted by a local women’s outreach organisation to assist the fire victims.
“Of those identified were eight pregnant women and one who had lost all their belongings in the devastating blaze. Islamic Relief responded to this request and collected essentials for these pregnant women and their unborn babies. This ensures that both the mother and new-born baby will be secured and comfortable for the journey ahead,” said Parker.
Islamic Relief SA is a non governmental organisation that works around the country helping needy people.
Parker stated that as an organisation they are not saving lives but assisting to rebuild them.
“We stick around even after the situation has calmed, helping families put their lives back together again and empower communities to prepare themselves before an emergency strikes. Our aim is to respond as swiftly as possible and be present in those moments to help those in need. Our local emergencies fund is there to enable us to act swiftly when disaster strikes,” he said.