Neftaly Charity – April 2020
SAYPRO – DEVELOPMENT BANK OF SOUTHERN AFRICA (DBSA) PARTNERSHIP
Report by Neftaly Chief Development Officer
1. Overview
April 2020 marked a critical point in South Africa’s COVID-19 pandemic response. The Neftaly–DBSA partnership adapted swiftly to support vulnerable communities during the hard lockdown, focusing on health, food security, education continuity, and digital access. This month’s interventions were driven by urgency, compassion, and innovation.
2. Key Activities Implemented
Emergency Food Relief and Health Access
- Mobilized 20 community-based hubs to distribute essential food parcels and hygiene packs.
- Worked with local clinics to supply PPE and sanitizer to frontline workers.
COVID-19 Information Campaign
- Launched a multilingual awareness drive using SMS, WhatsApp groups, and radio stations.
- Distributed over 15,000 flyers with DBSA co-branded COVID-19 safety messaging.
Remote Learning & Youth Engagement
- Distributed printed educational packets to 1,000 learners without internet.
- Initiated virtual tutoring sessions via WhatsApp and Zoom.
- Partnered with DBSA to pilot a “learning-from-home” support model.
Digital Infrastructure Support
- Provided 100 refurbished laptops and 250 data SIM cards to disadvantaged students.
- Began setting up Wi-Fi zones in three high-density communities with DBSA’s backing.
3. Impact Summary – April 2020
| Program Area | Achievements |
|---|---|
| Food Parcels Distributed | 7,500 households |
| PPE Delivered to Clinics | 12 rural and peri-urban facilities |
| Learners Reached with Resources | 1,000+ |
| Digital Devices Distributed | 100 laptops, 250 SIMs |
| Youth Mentorship Participants | 320 engaged online |
4. Success Stories
- Lerato, a Grade 12 student in Khayelitsha, received a Neftaly study pack and data voucher. She is now attending live exam prep sessions weekly.
- A local clinic in Limpopo was able to extend their operating hours safely due to a donation of masks and sanitizer from our joint DBSA stock.
5. Challenges
- Mobility restrictions hampered logistics and slowed aid distribution.
- Psychological stress among youth increased, prompting the need for a mental health intervention.
- Limited electricity and connectivity in deep rural zones affected access to remote learning.
6. Next Steps
- Expand mental health and psychosocial support programs for youth and caregivers.
- Introduce a voucher-based food relief system for greater dignity and choice.
- Extend digital learning to an additional 500 learners in May 2020.
7. Acknowledgement
The agility and depth of the Neftaly–DBSA partnership proved vital during this period of uncertainty. The shared commitment to people-centered development ensured that we reached those most at risk with meaningful, timely interventions.
Prepared by:
Chief Development Officer
Neftaly Foundation
Date: April 30, 2020

