The SA Jewish Board of Deputies is working together with the Garden Route Jewish Association to assist in whatever way they can to bring relief to the victims of the Knysna fires.
In Cape Town, they are working with Bnoth Zion WIZO, the SA Zionist Federation and the SA Union of Jewish Students to collect non-perishable food, clothing and toiletries to distribute to communities hardest hit. As of 12 June, over R100 000 has been raised but people have also donated other necessary resources for victims of the Knysna fires and Cape storm. Head of Communications for the Cape Board, Liza-Jane Saban said, “This is a disaster of epic proportions, and as representatives of the Cape Jewish community, we are able to access and mobilise community organisations and members to assist and offer relief to the region. We have been able to channel the kind offers and generous donations from the community to the relevant relief organisations on the ground up the Garden Route. We know of three Jewish families living in Plett who have lost their entire homes through the fire. Our outreach efforts extend to them as well as the greater community. Our hearts go out to everyone affected by the fires, and we also extend our sincerest gratitude to men and women of the Emergency Services who have efficiently and bravely served these communities.”
