OUDTSHOORN NEWS - The Tshezi Foundation South Africa recently conducted a large-scale outreach programme in the Bongolethu community, assisting nearly 200 families affected by the recent floods while also honouring the resilience, strength and contribution of women in local communities.

The non-profit organisation, established in 2023, was founded by Bandile Mbalo, who also serves as president. The foundation focuses on community upliftment and educational support initiatives across vulnerable communities.

During the outreach programme, the foundation provided a range of essential aid packages to households in both formal and informal settlements.

A total of 30 families received vegetable combo packs to support food security, while 42 families, primarily elderly women and flood-affected households, were provided with winter blankets to help them cope with the cold following the severe weather.

In addition, 30 families received food parcels that included meat, while a further 70 families were assisted with food parcels and hampers as part of the broader relief effort.

Mbalo said the blankets were specifically prioritised for elderly women and the most affected families, in recognition of the disproportionate impact disasters often have on vulnerable groups.

The initiative is part of the foundation's ongoing commitment to community development, with a strong emphasis on supporting women and families in crisis situations.

According to Mbalo, the outreach programme also served as a gesture of appreciation for the role women play in sustaining households and communities, particularly during times of hardship.

The foundation has indicated that it plans to continue similar outreach initiatives in other affected areas as part of its long-term community support strategy.

Mbalo also thanked all the sponsors, businesses and individuals who made this programme possible.

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