ISSUES AT STAKE: The power of a compassionate community
Whether they generously empty their wallets to enhance the lives of their neighbours or squeeze themselves into a kennel to help their four-legged friends, Zululanders have hearts of compassion that know no bounds, writes RONELLE RAMSAMY
ZULULANDERS never shy away from vocalising their discontent when it comes to shoddy service delivery, holding public officials accountable for their actions and condemning atrocities plaguing the community.
They are people of action and therefore will not stand back silently and watch as another suffers.
This defining quality is perhaps displayed most vividly when there is a Mayday call for help.
From supporting accident victims to raising funds for people in need of medical care or assisting the most vulnerable in our community with a new roof over their heads, clothes and food, Zululanders rally in time of need.
This is not a once-off philanthropic show, and there are no ulterior motives. They truly care and heed pleas for help all year-round.
Having moved to Zululand more than 12 years ago, I have always been impressed and am still amazed at how diverse communities can put aside differences and unite to improve the lives of others.
Despite the negative outlook of crime, division and future uncertainty, compassion breaks the chains of poverty and racism, dispels darkness and unites people of all cultures, races, ethnic backgrounds and walks of life.
This is the power of a compassionate community: Ubuntu in action.
DICE taps in to compassion
Whether they generously empty their wallets to enhance the lives of their neighbours or squeeze themselves into a kennel to help their four-legged friends, Zululanders have hearts of compassion that know no bounds.
This publication has often told the stories of the generous nature of Zululanders who raise enormous amounts for noble causes and the organisations that do remarkable work in disadvantaged communities.
When there is a need, we look to locals for their usual compassion and we are never disappointed.
The DICE Christmas Cheer project raising funds to purchase 1000 grocery buckets and collecting clothes, food and toys for the underprivileged in our region is but a drop in the ocean.
It is, nevertheless, a kind gesture that will positively impact many families and like the work of so many other NGOs in our area, is very much needed at this time of year.
It is a call not only to corporates and NPOs but also every individual willing to help.
All that is needed is R200 towards a grocery bucket or clothes, toys and groceries that can be distributed to needy families this Christmas.
Already-filled buckets are also available at Checkers Empangeni and Hyper Richards Bay and can be dropped off at Zululand Observer offices in Richards Bay or Empangeni.
Join the Zululand Observer’s charity arm DICE in setting up your own drop off points to collect items in the workplace or how about clearing out your grocery cupboards, wardrobes and toy drawers for a good cause.
If a round of golf is your cup of tea, then support the DICE fund-raising golf day at the Empangeni Country Club on Saturday, 25 November. Every bit of help counts.
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