Volunteer-powered Relief

“If you offer yourselves in compassion for the hungry and relieve those in misery, then your dawning light will rise in the darkness and your gloom will turn into noonday splendour!”

– Isaiah 58:10 TPT

WHO WE ARE

CityHope (IT 1851/2006/PMB) is a Public Benefit Organization registered in South Africa but serving the world. We respond to disaster situations by providing relief aid and disaster recovery. We respond to the immediate needs of people impacted by disasters from natural or artificial causes (political or social unrest) by engaging and leveraging our volunteers, partner organizations, and local church groups to help those in desperate need.

WHAT WE DO

We deliver disaster aid to communities and nations affected by disaster situations irrespective of race, religion, culture, ethnicity or political affiliation..

HOW WE RESPOND

CityHope partners with businesses, organizations, church groups  and individuals who are able to facilitate the collection, storage and disbursement of relief aid and disaster management services.

By applying a comprehensive vetting process that oversees the registration of prospective partners, we ensure that the humanitarian aid gets to where it needs to go.

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MEET THE TEAM

CATHERINE SMITH

General Manager

Catherine, a St Mary’s DSG graduate in Kloof, is a highly respected leader in her field. She completed her degree in Industrial and Clinical Psychology at the University of Cape Town, marking the beginning of her service journey. Catherine started by working with the rehabilitation of Durban’s street children at iCare, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of those around her. She then took on greater responsibilities by managing the Durban branch of the Businesswomen’s Association of South Africa for ten years.
In September 2018, Catherine was appointed as the General Manager of CityHope Disaster Relief, where she answered the call to lead with enthusiasm and dedication. Her passion for positive change motivates and inspires others, and she strives to make a lasting impact in her community. Catherine is happily married with two children and is supported by her loving family in her endeavours to contribute positively to society.

DONOVAN BANEY

Board Member

Donovan is the Managing Director at Mr Price, a renowned fashion retailer in South Africa. He is widely recognized as a compassionate and visionary leader guided by his mission to impact the world positively. His life philosophy centres around giving more than he takes, and his unwavering commitment to serving others is evident in his efforts to support the child orphans of Africa.
Donovan and his beloved wife Hayley founded CityHope Disaster Relief, a humanitarian organization dedicated to providing assistance and support to those in need. Through this platform, they work towards bringing hope and positive change to communities in need. Their efforts reflect their deep-seated commitment to serving humanity and making a difference.

PETER COMRIE

Board Member

Peter is married to Megan and they have three sons. He obtained his BCom degree in Marketing and Economics from the University of KZN, Durban, in 1991 after receiving his education in his hometown of Hillcrest. Peter has an innate entrepreneurial spirit and founded his first prosperous business venture while pursuing his university education. Throughout the years, Peter has managed multiple businesses, including furniture retailing, manufacturing, and exporting, as well as industrial property ownership and management.

Peter has been actively involved with CityHill Church and its associated entities for over two decades. He has effectively utilized his administrative expertise to provide organization and stability to a continuously developing ministry. His talents extend beyond CtyHope Disaster Relief, as he has assisted other churches, organizations, and individuals in realizing their full potential.

OCKIE VAN HEERDEN

Board Member

Ockie embarked on his career journey by working as a youth and children’s pastor for seven years while pursuing his degree in Theology from the University of South Africa, which he completed in 2006.
He is a forward-thinking entrepreneur passionate about media and technology, taking pride in assisting businesses to meet their digital media requirements. His expertise in the field was developed when he worked within the digital media industry at CityHill Church, which was a launching pad for the establishment of Classic Fusion Media.
Ockie’s desire to make a meaningful contribution to society was further ignited in 2014 when he was entrusted with raising awareness about the plight of the Somali people. This experience led him to become involved in disaster relief efforts and eventually join the board of CityHope, where he remains a committed member to date.
Ockie is married to Angela, and they are blessed with two children

PHILLIP KINDER

Phillip Kinder is a Chartered Management Accountant with 20 years experience in the fields of Banking, Finance, Forensic Accounting and Executive Consulting. He serves on the boards of various non-profit organisations, focused primarily in the areas of church growth, social development and poverty relief.