SHOPPING THE UBUNTU WAY

It is with heavy hearts that we have to issue a post like this as a result of the unprecedented looting and violence we have seen in our beloved country, over the past week. 

However, there is much to be grateful for, starting with the brave men and women who have defended and protected the Dolphin Coast and continue to do so.  We wish to extend our sincere thanks to our Neighbourhood Watches, security companies, business-related entities, SAPS, resident volunteers and others who have supported this effort.  The major stakeholders have created a group called the “Greater Ballito Operations Centre (GBOC)” and are preparing and implementing an Emergency Integrated Operational Plan to address all the key areas that need to be addressed.

We are calling upon the community to continue in this spirit of cooperation as we face the challenges ahead. It is now our turn to contribute. We understand the frustration and anxiety that many of you are feeling, due to the challenges being experienced and the lack of access to foodstuffs, medicines, and other essential supplies, especially the elderly and the vulnerable. 

In order to maintain order and security in our area, as shops reopen, it will be necessary that we each take personal responsibility for how we conduct ourselves.  The GBOC will be communicating with us through various channels on what protocols will be, which stores will be open and when. 

However, for the benefit of us all, let us remind ourselves of the following:

1. Adhere to all COVID-19 protocols. We remain in adjusted Alert Level 4 and mask wearing, social distancing and the use of sanitizers is non-negotiable.
2. Shop Online. Make use of these services if available.
3. Share transport. If possible, share transport with your neighbours to limit number of vehicles at the shops.
4. Come prepared. Make a list of most critical items you need in a list – keep it to a minimum. Have substitutions for items in mind if your first choice is not available.  Bring your own shopping bags and help pack your goods.
5. DO NOT hoard or stockpile goods of any kind. Consider others who may also have a need for the product you are buying.
6. Comply with store regulations. Please comply with all store regulations such as item limits and limiting access to one representative per household.
7. Consider alternatives to fresh produce. If fresh produce is not available, choose tinned, dried, or frozen instead. If yeast is not available, use soda or baking powder as leavening agents. 
8. Diversify your protein sources. If fresh meat or fish are not available, look for tinned or frozen options.  If animal protein is not available, seek out beans, lentils, nuts and other plant-based protein sources.
9. Share and barter. Barter with your neighbours or friends for any surplus either of you may have.  If you have more than you need, please share with those who do not.
10. BE PATIENT & REMAIN CALM. Expect long queues. Do not shout, skip queues, push, or engage in any type of violence or confrontation. Everyone is feeling stressed or anxious to some degree and this will only serve to exacerbate a bad situation.  Be kind and courteous, even when it is hard.
11. Obey all police and security personnel. Follow all instructions and guidance issued by the police and security personnel.
12. Offer your services or help. Offer your assistance, or suggestions, if there are areas where you believe you can assist.

 

We, DOCRRA, will continue to promote and protect the interests of all residents and ratepayers within the jurisdiction of the Dolphin Coast area. However, the more community representation and support we have, the more influence we have. Therefore, we urge you to become a member of DOCRRA.

To join, please go to: https://docrra.co.za/membership/

Website:  www.docrra.co.za

If you require more information, please contact us on admin@docrra.co.za.