Update on the R1 million Emergency Appeal Launched by The South African Red Cross Society in Support of Victims of Recent Urban Violence.

South Africans demonstrate their spirit of ubuntu by supporting the South African Red Cross Society (SARCS) in its drive to provide emergency relief to the thousands of people affected by the recent acts of violence.

The SARCS Emergency Appeal was launched on Friday 16 May 2008, after it became evident that the numbers of affected people would continue to rise over the weekend.  By 15 May 2008, the estimated number of people who had received assistance from SARCS was 3000. By Monday 19 May, this figure had risen to more than 6000.

SARCS volunteers and staff provide first aid and distribute mainly food, blankets and hygiene and baby kits.  These Red Cross representatives have been working in shifts, often in dangerous and difficult conditions, providing relief and comfort to those affected by the violence.

The Society is preparing to launch an anti-discrimination campaign, based on International Humanitarian Law and promoting the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement’s Fundamental Principles of Humanity, Impartiality, Neutrality, Independence, Voluntary Service, Unity and Universality for peace and harmony.  It is hoped that this will promote a more long-term solution to the underlying causes of the ongoing violence. 

Apart from the many donations, in cash and kind, from concerned South African individuals and families, there has also been generous support from Pick n Pay, MTN and Standard Bank.

 Appeal Document for Support for Victims of Urban Violence

However, needs are increasing and SARCS continues to appeal for further donations, in cash and kind. They urge the public to contact their nearest Red Cross branch for information on what items to donate and how (see www.redcross.org.za or call SARCS national office on 021-532-0202). Those wishing to donate cash are asked to use the following account:

For further information or to set up interviews, please contact:

South African Red Cross Society Regional Office in Johannesburg
Mbuso Mthembu,
Provincial Manager
Tel: 27 11 873 5595

South African Red Cross Society National Office in Cape Town

Mandisa Kalako Williams

 Secretary General
Tel: 27 12 431 2000