Barbara Florence, a resident of KwaZulu-Natal, is pleading with comrades marathon runners to help people affected by a tornado that swept through Tongaat, KwaZulu-Natal, on the afternoon of the 03rd of June 2024.
More than 1, 200 affected families are receiving some support from the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government, including food and shelter.
12 people died as a result and about 17,000 people were affected by the tornado.
Letter written by Barbara Florence
“Good morning, I am putting this appeal out to the running community specifically, as I have personally experienced and witnessed the kindness and generosity of this community, as I am sure most of you have.
As many of you prepare for the final few days, please remember there are fellow runners who were planning to run Comrades on Sunday who have now lost absolutely everything in the Tongaat tornado, including their dream to run. The level of devastation is hard to comprehend and it is by the grace of God that many of us were not in the path of the tornado – this could have been me or you – I have heard of people who were missed by a few hundred metres.
I have also witnessed, after a week of political turmoil, that when it matters, most South Africans come together and support each other, in whatever way they are able to within their means. South Africans from all over our beautiful country put aside personal and selfish interests, with their outpouring of care and support for the community, in a real spirit of Ubuntu.
So my appeal to each runner is to find a way to support this community or a runner affected by the tornado, be it financially, in kind or through support. There are so many appeals detailing drop off points (churches, NPOs), banking details, collection services and a quick FB search will identify these (I am very happy to assist in my area and facilitate where necessary). The needs are massive for humans and animals – building materials, skills to rebuild, non-perishables, toiletries, water, volunteer services. I encourage you to also share posts of where help is needed, specifically or generally. Thank you and wishing the Comrades runners an amazing day on the road on Sunday!”
Picture: Richard Shute