Tongaat Tornado Update

Donations from Mission friends are already hard at work in Tongaat, helping people rebuild their lives after the devastating tornado. Fr. Phelelani Mswane, parish priest of the Sacred Heart Church in the town, is in charge of the process. He was so excited about the outpouring of generosity from afar, which has given him the means to provide much needed help to his community.

Although the immediate need for clothes and food has lessened, the big problem remaining for many people in the area is the removal of rubble left behind in the wake of the storm. They’ve done what they can to remove debris by hand. But there are heavy pieces of cement and steel which they cannot budge. And some of it is blocking the river from which they draw water.

After consultation with the community, Fr Phelelani decided that removal of the rubble, and other material needs, would be the best use of the donations received. It’s what the people themselves feel they need most.

While other relief organisations have stepped in to help the people of Tongaat, they don’t have a physical presence in the area, nor the church infrastructure and relationship with the local people. Fr Phelelani is a well known and trusted presence in the community, making it possible for us to effectively channel funds to where they’ll have the greatest impact.

From everyone in Tongaat, “Siyabonga” – thank you – for caring and reaching out your generous helping hand.