In support of the local and provincial government’s efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19 in Nelson Mandela Bay, Volkswagen Group South Africa (VWSA) has donated 150 beds to the isolation facility at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.
The Nelson Mandela Bay municipality recently announced that the stadium would be used to isolate low-acuity patients who have been infected with COVID-19, to prevent them from spreading the virus further.
The facility will be managed by the Department of Health, with support from the Municipality.
VWSA was approached by the Department of Health to assist in equipping the facility to house more patients. Within the space of a week, the company answered calls and sourced the required 150-bed bases.
These beds were delivered and handed over to the government by VWSA and the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber.
This donation is part of VWSA’s continuous efforts to protect and prepare the communities of Nelson Mandela Bay amid the COVID-19 crisis.
The company has also been involved in the local manufacture of face masks, respirators and ventilators.
“VWSA remains committed to supporting the Business Chamber and local government in their efforts to contain Covid-19 and save lives,” said Thomas Schaefer, Volkswagen Group South Africa Chairman and Managing Director.
“As this pandemic is a threat to all communities, we cannot falter or fail to act. It is my hope that this donation will enable the Department and its brave healthcare workers to save many more lives.”