A Rise in Food Scarcity
COVID Causes Rise in Food Scarcity in SA
While Americans focus largely on vaccination timelines, the focus of our family in South Africa remains very much on survival. COVID-19 has not only brought death to the townships, but a significant increase in food scarcity and violence.
AIAIA conducted its most recent food distribution in March, adhering to masks and social distancing, even as the government increased exposure by raising public gatherings to 250.
“COVID, unemployment, and the need for food has resulted in crime increasing beyond imagination,” explained Spiwo Xapile, an AIAIA Board member and long-time South African resident. “When we were distributing in Malungeni, delivery of the chickens that are part of our food parcels were delayed a few hours. The mothers would not leave until the chickens arrived. Their dignity was at stake. That is how life is because of poverty.”
It is impossible to provide food parcels for every person in need in the townships where Arm in Arm serves. That is why we rely on the residents of the townships to notify Olga Xapile, who, along with Spiwo, supervises our distribution on the ground.
““The level of demand is so much higher with COVID,” Olga commented. “It is difficult to see so many in need.”AIAIA has 3 more distributions scheduled in 2021. To support local businesses, we purchase all food at large retailers who, in turn, provide distribution of all the parcels to the townships where they are met by our team.”
If you would like to support our efforts to provide additional food during this tremendous time of need, please use the enclosed envelope or donate securely online at aiaia.org/donate.