Mayco Member Pophaim partners with Gift of the Givers to bring hope to Hillview

23 January 2024

City of Cape Town Mayoral Committee Member for Human Settlements, Councillor Carl Pophaim, has collaborated with the humanitarian NGO Gift of the Givers to provide essential assistance to school learners and their families affected by the devastating fire that swept through Hillview informal settlement in December 2023. 

In this joint initiative led by Councillor Pophaim offering support to those directly impacted by the recent tragedy is particularly timely as the school year gets under way.

'Today's partnership with Gift of the Givers is a testament to our commitment to the well-being of our communities. In the face of adversity, we stand united to bring hope and support to those affected by the Hillview fire,' said Councillor Pophaim.

Gift of the Givers provides school supplies, including stationery, benefiting 400 to 500 children at the commencement of each school year.

Gift of the Givers spokesperson, Ali Sablay said the school supply handover forms part of the organisation's Back to School Programme which supports disadvantaged school learners. 

'During our visit to the Hillview community last month, we determined that the need for school supplies was one of the most vital needs that had to be prioritised. Today we ensured that each and every affected learner received new school uniforms so that they do not feel left out when returning to school.'

While the City continues its collaborative efforts with partners to assist disaster victims, Councillor Pophaim emphasised the crucial need for direct access to disaster funding for effective emergency response and mitigation.

'Access to disaster funding is paramount for our emergency response efforts. We are working diligently with organisations like Gift of the Givers to ensure immediate relief reaches those who need it most. We will continue to urge the National Minister of Human Settlements to consider decentralising disaster relief funding to clean, capable, and well-governed municipalities such as the City of Cape Town, ensuring residents affected by disasters can live in dignity and receive prompt and efficient assistance in emergencies,' said Councillor Pophaim.

Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office