The Sunday Mail
Sunday Mail Reporter
Zimpapers, the country’s largest integrated media house, is presently canvassing for donations from corporate partners and individuals as it pools resources meant for the national response to the coronavirus pandemic.
The campaign, which was launched last week by the company’s chief executive officer Mr Pikirayi Deketeke, is meant to assist people affected by the pandemic.
Zimpapers group public relations and corporate communications manager Ms Beatrice Tonhodzayi said Zimpapers was accepting donations both in cash and kind.
“We would like to invite corporate partners, individuals and anybody who would like to assist people who have been affected by Covid-19,” she said.
“Among those who we would like to assist are women, children and even those whose incomes have been affected by the pandemic.”
Due to the disease, she added, most people were now in need of food, clothes and face masks. There are people who do not have face masks, clothes and food. These are the things which people need, especially now that we are in winter.
“We are also taking cash donations because there are those who may need assistance in the form of cash.”
Launching the campaign, Mr Deketeke said the effects of Covid-19 would be felt by generations to come, adding that the pandemic has affected communities in many different ways, with some losing loved ones and others losing livelihoods.
Others, however, find themselves living with daily risk due to the work they do.
“With this campaign, we are inviting Zimbabweans to come together to contribute to the national Covid-19 response.
“Personal protective equipment (PPE) and test kits are in short supply for those who need them.
“There are heart-breaking personal stories of people who are struggling to put food on their tables, which our reporters are highlighting daily through our platforms.
“With winter upon us now, our hearts go out to those thousands who do not have enough warm clothing or blankets.
“Colds and coughs are very common in this season and we anticipate that there will be rising needs for flu medicines, vitamins and related essentials.
“With us coming together to contribute what we can; we will make a difference in someone’s life,” said Mr Deketeke.
Those who would like to donate the banking details are as follows: FBC Account number 3132517010192 or Ecocash Merchant 019201.
