More than 700 destitute households in Region D have received much-needed food supplies following a donation from several Johannesburg-based NGOs run by young people.

Health and Social Development MMC, Eunice Mgcina has acknowledged the donations of maize meal, cooking oil, tinned foods, soap, sanitizers and cloth masks from Africa Rising, Yandisa Investments, Century Holdings and Bana Fela, all youth-owned enterprises.

“These donations will come in handy because, in the City, we have people who go to bed without food. It is a real problem and we are grateful for this intervention," said the MMC.

Speaking on behalf of donors, Africa Rising's Ndaba Mandela, the grandson of the late former President Nelson Mandela said they were moved to help those in need, particularly during the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic.

“We have seen a lot of people in our City and our country struggling to get by. I'm proud that we were able to come together as a group of young people to help. We wish to thank the City of Joburg for coming on board with volunteers who have ensured the distribution of the food parcels and we are grateful for this partnership," said Mandela.

Food insecurity remained a real challenge for residents of Johannesburg and local authorities, said Brenda Dammie, Councillor for Ward 29.

“Thank you very much for thinking about our indigent families. I am happy that you have put a smile so many people's faces through these donations," Dammie said.

Mgcina was humbled by the generosity of the four organisations and their members. She said the donations were a true demonstration of the generosity the country and the City are known for.

She added that the City was grateful to the business sector, NGOs and private individuals who continue to respond to the call to assist those in need.

Mgcina has urged Councillors to collaborate with municipal officials to ensure the donations only reach those in need.