BOXES of chocolate, Easter eggs and other delicious goodies were recently handed out to the needy in certain parts of the metro’s northern areas to munch on during the lockdown period.
Armed with masks and gloves, volunteers at the Helenvale Centre of Hope took to the streets and handed out multiple units of each snack in the informal settlements of 7de Laan, Barcelona and other extensions in Bethelsdorp.
Chairperson of the centre, Mario Lewis, said that they had been receiving monthly donations from Foodforward SA and this time it included Cadbury chocolates, marshmallows and even crates full of Steri-Stumpie milk drinks.
According to Lewis, everyone deserved to be spoiled once in a while, especially during this nationwide lockdown, as it is a difficult time for everyone. The less fortunate aren’t able to afford such delicacies.
“Handing out the goodies was priceless. If you are less fortunate, you don’t always get to eat chocolate and seeing the children’s faces light up was just amazing,” Lewis said.
“Their reactions really touched my heart and I am grateful for all the donations that made this possible. It brought me so much joy to see their gratitude and how excited they were,” he added.
Lewis mentioned that apart from this initiative, the Helenvale Centre of Hope were also planning to continue their feeding schemes in the community and were waiting for the approval of a permit to do so during the lockdown period. Lewis also said they were aware of the fact that some of the youth who attended educational programmes at the centre, were dependent on the meals they received. Since lockdown was implemented, these youngsters have probably been struggling without any food.
“There is a huge, constant need for relief plans in our community.
“We want everyone to know that it doesn’t matter which circumstances we currently face in our country or the community, they don’t have to fret about where the next meal will come from,” he added.
“The community has been so stressed and worried about the coronavirus. We would like to help alleviate that stress by making sure that they are fed and well taken care of.”
Lewis added that if they were not able to secure a permit during this time, the relief plans would start again immediately after the 21-days’ lockdown period.
