The world has taken a hard knock from the COVID-19 pandemic; economically, physically, and emotionally. However, there has been plenty of good news, too. Soup kitchens have magically appeared in days providing food to the needy, and every person with a sewing machine has been hard at work supplying neighbours and friends with face masks. In particular, these small businesses have found different ways to help stem the spread of the virus and provide support to their communities. This is how small businesses are helping during a worldwide pandemic.
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1. Living Corona Positive
Megan and her friend Jules launched the Instagram account, ‘Living Corona Positive‘ to document their recovery from the Coronavirus. The two women contracted the virus on an overseas holiday with Megan’s family. However, the initiative has exploded in a way that the two women hadn’t predicted. The account, which began as a place for people to ask questions and share positive messages, now has over 10 000 followers and counting.
Living Corona Positive just launched its first project, ‘Sparkling Hands‘ which aims to deliver a minimum of 10 000 to 15 000 hotel-sized soap bars to those in need every week.
In order to get these much-needed hygiene products to vulnerable communities, Living Corona Positive has partnered with Intermarket Guest Amenities and the Hillsong Africa Foundation, who will help to manufacture and distribute the soaps respectively.
To cover the costs of raw materials and labour, Megan is asking businesses and individuals alike to contribute R1,50 per soap. From as little as R150, you can help get 100 soap bars to 100 people in need! If you’d like to be a part of this amazing project, visit the Living Corona Positive website or send Megan a message via Instagram.
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2. Andrea: Very Nice Things To Wear
andrea is a new and exciting South African clothing brand started by Johannesburg-based entrepreneur, Andrea van der Kuil. Her range combines slow fashion with bespoke, handmade pieces, and she also offers a limited number of ready-to-wear items.
In addition to her own stunning creations, Andrea has been making cloth face masks for the community of Alexandra, alongside @raysofhope_rsa. Rays of Hope has been providing the community with hampers and masks through various donations made by the public.
How can you help?
Support this wonderful cause by joining the team of people making masks, or by making a monetary donation. You can find all the information you need here.
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3. Fresch Online
Fresch Online has been selling and delivering healthy pantry staples to our doors for some time. Now, they’re also offering customers gift cards, where R50 of every voucher sold will go towards feeding those in need with Ladles of Love and the Ukama Foundation.
Simply visit their website, purchase a gift card, and supply the receiver’s email address. You’ll be gifting a loved one with delicious and healthy ingredients, and be making a difference in a stranger’s life.
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Compiled by Food and Decor Editor, Claire Badenhorst
