According to Heineken, the personal protective equipment (PPEs) are valued at R1-million, including masks, gloves and medical-grade disinfectants, will be distributed to various hospitals for healthcare workers at the coalface of the pandemic.

Some of the PPE is intended for the newly erected field hospital at Nasrec Exhibition Centre, an isolation and quarantine facility for Covid-19 patients in anticipation of increasing infections.

Additional to the protective equipment, Heineken has also donated refreshments for hospital kitchens including tea, coffee, rusks and energy bars to sustain the hospital staff on duty.

Just over 100 families living in MidVaal, Orlando East, Alexandra townships and a homeless shelter in Roodepoort benefited from the food donation. Heineken worked with local community organisations, including Lethabo Feeding Scheme, Reabetswe Community Care Service and Dorah's Ark.

Heineken also donated groceries to one of its customers, Disoufeng Pub and Restaurant in Soweto that is currently running a soup kitchen twice a week for its community.

"As Heineken South Africa, we strongly believe in showcasing our global ethos of 'Brewing a Better World' through actions," says Millicent Maroga, corporate affairs director, Heineken South Africa.

"Through the two significant donations, we are fulfilling our commitment to 'Promote health and safety', and 'Growing with and supporting communities', especially in the areas in which we operate," adds Maroga. "We hope the donations give relief and comfort where it is most needed."

Globally, Heineken concludes that it has donated close to R300-million to support the Red Cross with its relief efforts for the most vulnerable people affected by COVID-19, particularly in Africa, Asia and Latin America.

For more information, visit www.heineken.com. You can also follow Heineken South Africa on Facebook or on Twitter.