Only one thing is certain – these are uncertain times. In the space of only 11 months, we all find ourselves living in a very different world. The impact of Covid-19 has been hard on everyone, in very different ways. Many have lost loved ones; their jobs or had their income reduced. Many are experiencing severe hardship and struggling to cope. Many are socially isolated from their family, friends and colleagues, for extended periods. Our frontline healthcare workers are exhausted. Our economy is taking a beating. Many businesses have closed, while others are struggling to survive. The public is becoming more and more sceptical about our government’s ability to manage this crisis and our recovery programme.
Yet, in the midst of all this hardship and uncertainty, we have also seen many examples of the most beautiful demonstrations of humanity, generosity, kindness, personal sacrifice and empathy that inspire us, motivate us, encourage us and bring us closer together. I’m reminded of what Robert Alden said: “There is not enough darkness in all the world to put out the light of even one small candle. Amanda Gorman’s powerful quote at US President Biden’s inauguration reinforces this sentiment: “For there is always light, if only we’re brave enough to see it. If only we’re brave enough to be it.”
I have seen, first-hand, the amazing generosity, kindness, personal sacrifice and empathy from literally thousands and thousands of people over the past few months who have supported our work in different ways. When FoodForward SA made a special Covid-19 R50mn public appeal in April 2020, we had no idea what the response would be. Thankfully, it was overwhelming! People donated in their personal capacity or directed funds via their corporate social investment budgets – allowing FoodForward SA to raise more than R90mn in 9 months. Moreover, we have received regular procured quality food donations from our generous food donor partners to the value of more than R100mn.
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