How Auto and General Supported Communities in a Difficult Year

As the world faced unprecedented times, we saw a rise in human empathy and generosity.

At Auto and General, we were truly honoured to team up with compassionate and giving people and businesses to do our part in spreading hope in what felt like hopeless times.

These were the CSI initiatives we were especially proud of during the turbulent year of 2020.

Auto and General's R320 Million Relief Fund Contribution

We responded to the President’s call to unite in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic with a pledge of R320 million. Through multi-faceted focus areas, our financial contribution met the very real and diverse needs over this time. 

• R50 million was donated to the National Solidarity Fund.

• R200 million was used to support feeding schemes in our neighbouring communities.

• R70 million was set up as a relief fund to assist small businesses, including those within our supply chain. Over 2,100 SMEs were identified to receive assistance.

Fighting Hunger Through the Food Security Programme

Auto and General launched the Food Security Programme in Diepsloot in 2014.

The Food Security Programme increased its seedling production in Diepsloot and implemented a new distribution plan. As produce became more available, residents were notified to collect their vegetables from select creches in the area. Various measures were put in place to ensure that social distancing and hygiene protocols were strictly observed.

The programme supported 18 vegetable gardens and two seedling nurseries that provided nutritious meals to over 1,145 children daily, with 2,230 Diepsloot residents indirectly benefiting from the initiative, too.

Mandela Day 67-Minute Scarf Initiative

In 2020, for Mandela Month, Auto and General encouraged people to spend 67 minutes knitting a scarf for someone in need.

Countless generous knitters gave of their time to knit or crochet a scarf, and then nominated friends and family to do the same. Once done, they left the scarf in a public area for people in need to find, with a personalised message of hope.

Needless to say, bodies and hearts were warmed across the nation.

How Communities Came Together During COVID-19

The pandemic demonstrated the nation's resilience. Communities rallied to support those in need, whether through donations or volunteer efforts. Businesses partnered to provide essential supplies and emotional support. Everyone found creative ways to stay connected and uplift others, particularly in times of despair. Despite the challenging time we all endured, it proved the true strength of South Africans. 

Looking Ahead – Continuing to Support Vulnerable Communities

It was a trying year, but human generosity and compassion prevailed, yet again. Auto and General will continue to do all we can to help the most vulnerable, during the pandemic and beyond.