THE Umhlanga Hindu Society has launched its annual Diwali Hamper Drive, an initiative designed to bring joy and relief to families in need.
Diwali, known as the Festival of Lights, is a time of celebration, unity, and sharing.
This year, Diwali will be celebrated on October 31.
Marlini Naidoo, the Seva Convener of the board of directors at the Umhlanga Hindu Society, said the society was committed to ensuring that needy families in the community have the opportunity to experience the warmth and light of this special festival.
"The Diwali Hamper Drive aims to provide essential food items and other festive treats to underprivileged families. The society has been actively involved in charity for more than 23 years, and for over 15 years we have been doing the Diwali hamper drive
"This drive is done because we noticed the need in communities has grown, especially after the April 2021 floods, the 2022 unrest, the Tongaat tornado and other disasters that have impacted communities."
She added: “In 2022, we made 1 000 hampers and in 2023 we made 2 000. This year, we have not yet set an exact target but we hope to make more than 2 000 hampers. Each hamper is thoughtfully curated to include items that reflect the spirit of Diwali, helping recipients to partake in the festivities with dignity and joy. Our hampers will include essential groceries as well as traditional items for Diwali celebrations.
“Ninety-nine percent of our hampers are given to recipients directly by us. We work with community leaders or welfare organisations and get lists from them with the names of deserving recipients and then we distribute the hampers accordingly. We work with lists, so that there is accountability for hampers that are given out."
The society encourages early contributions to ensure all hampers can be delivered in time for Diwali. To sponsor a hamper (from now until October 24), or to find out more information, call Shereen at the society at 031 572 7357 or email info@uhsociety.co.za.