Santam donates R1, 2 million for KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape flood relief efforts

Santam, South Africa’s largest general insurer, has donated R1, 2 million towards relief efforts, following the devastating floods that have caused loss of life and overwhelming damage to parts of Kwazulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape.

The donation has been provided to the South African Red Cross Society and will be used to acquire blankets, food packs, hygiene and baby packs, mattresses and hot meals for flood victims. John Lomberg, Santam’s Head of Stakeholder Relationship & CSI, said the company reached out to the Red Cross as soon as it became aware of the devastating consequences of the floods.

“We are in constant contact with the Red Cross and they are updating us on a daily basis on the scale of the tragedy. As a Proudly South African company we care for the communities we service and could not fold our arms when we saw the extent of the devastation. We are hopeful that aid to those most affected by the tragedy, will be delivered quickly,” Lomberg said.

As part of the relief effort Santam has also encouraged its employees to contribute, if possible, by donating whatever they can.

“This has been a tragic couple of days for the affected provinces and any contribution, small or big, from individuals or companies, will be of great help to the affected communities,” Lomberg added.

South African Red Cross Society Chairman Advocate Mothibedi Panyane has warmly acknowledged and accepted the donation.

“In such harsh economic conditions it is truly humbling to see such human spirit triumphing in such a spectacular manner. This donation will go far in lending a helping hand to those in our communities that are still reeling from the effects of the floods. It is this spirit of Ubuntu that you have all displayed at Santam that has built this nation. Thank you for your kindness and may you never tire of giving and uplifting those among us that need it the most,” Panyane said.