Tending to the most immediate needs of the communities, MBSA is providing R800 000 worth of humanitarian aid to enable the delivery of food parcels, warm meals, hygiene packs and essential cleaning materials to more than 350 destitute families affected by the floods.

Says Abey Kgotle, Executive Director of Human Resources and Corporate Affairs at MBSA: “In moments of crisis, we cannot stand by, we must stand together. Through our enduring partnership with Gift of the Givers Foundation, we can respond swiftly and meaningfully, offering hands-on support to the communities in need. This is compassion in action, and it reflects our belief that real impact happens when business and humanity walk hand-in-hand.”

Since the onset of the floods, Gift of the Givers has deployed teams on the ground to coordinate relief interventions, including emergency search and rescue operations, shelter support and food distribution. The partnership with MBSA has played a vital role in scaling up the organisation’s response.

Says Badr Kazi, spokesperson for Gift of the Givers Foundation: “Sadly, we have witnessed a human tragedy unfold in the Butterworth and Mthatha areas, where floodwaters brought loss, destruction and displacement. In response, Gift of the Givers deployed its full capacity of services – from search and rescue to humanitarian relief.

“Mercedes-Benz South Africa, our long-term, all-weather partner, responded immediately. As a valued partner, MBSA understands the need to respond suitably to crisis situations and shares the ethos of the unique role that corporations play in the South African context to create social cohesion in redressing historical imbalances through positive action. Their support enabled us to act swiftly – reflecting a shared commitment to social impact, Ubuntu and rebuilding with dignity,” Badr says.

Beyond the monetary support, Mercedes-Benz South Africa’s commitment is reflected in the active involvement of its employees, who volunteered alongside the Gift of the Givers teams to assist with the distribution efforts.

As recovery and rebuilding efforts continue, MBSA stands in solidarity with the effected communities and extends its deepest condolences to the grief-stricken families who have lost their loved ones and homes, the company says in a statement.