Overstrand Municipality Disaster Management is reviving its Humanitarian Network of Care, a partnership between local organisations that can provide support to communities during times of need.

When disasters such as fires, floods or other emergencies occur, there can be an immediate need for food, drinking water, clothing, temporary shelter and other essential items. While the Municipality coordinates the disaster response, community organisations, churches and other groups can often assist quickly with resources and support.

The network of care aims to improve coordination between these organisations and Disaster Management, helping to ensure that assistance reaches vulnerable communities as quickly as possible.

It will help to avoid duplication and make sure the right assistance gets to the right place. This can prevent too much of one type of item being donated while other important needs are not being met. It will also improve communication and cooperation before, during and after an incident.

Letters have been sent to organisations that regularly work with Disaster Management, inviting them to become part of this initiative.