This winter has been especially brutal with freezing conditions persisting across Gauteng. While most are keeping warm indoors, tow truck drivers and medical personnel are exposed to the harsh reality affecting thousands of people living on the streets who are using plastic sheets and cardboard boxes to keep warm.
“We see their suffering – children, families, men and women – they are struggling against the elements. We had to do something to assist,” said Diana Brophy, CEO of Firstassist.
In July, Firstassist, together with First Help and Emer-G-med will be distributing 4 000 blankets to the homeless through its towing and medical network in Johannesburg and Pretoria. Blankets will also be distributed via Rays of Hope in Alexander and Nkosi’s Haven in the South of Johannesburg.
“This is the third year we’ve teamed up to lend a helping hand to those in need. It’s a small gesture but we have no doubt that it will be a welcome one,” said Clint Spolander and Hennie Muller, Joint Operations Directors of First Help.
The blankets will be distributed to anyone in need by towing operators and medical emergency personnel.
“Our office is the streets of Johannesburg and Pretoria. When we see someone in need of warmth and compassion, we’ll offer a blanket. It’s a small, random act of kindness that illustrates that ‘we see you’ and we want to help,” says Wayne Grindell, CEO of Emer-G-med.