How William’s Rent Request Turned Him into A Community Hero!

Photo Credit: Cross the Divide via Facebook

For four years, William quietly visited Cross the Divide for a weekly meal, until one day, his need was greater than a meal; he needed help with his rent. Instead of simply handing him money, the charity offered him an opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to his community.

Johannesburg, South Africa (20 February 2025) – For four years, a soft-spoken William would visit the Cross the Divide charity to receive a meal. And for four years, he’d receive one from the kind volunteers who had come to recognise his familiar face and reserved nature… until one day, he gathered the courage to ask for help paying his R300 rent.

But instead of giving him money, Cross the Divide offered him a chance to earn it – unexpectedly opening him up to new possibilities.

The organisation presented William with the opportunity to create a mosaic at the entrance of a local property. While he didn’t have any experience in this field, William rose to the challenge, learning all he could to get the job done!

“The result? A stunning mosaic that now welcomes everyone at the gate, and a renewed sense of purpose for William.

“William didn’t stop there. He displayed initiative by watering newly planted vegetation along Jan Smuts Avenue and even cleared invasive water hyacinths from Delta Park’s dams,” said Cross the Divide.

William’s newfound entrepreneurship spirit, work ethic and acts of service have showcased his ability to take initiative and give back to the community!

Once struggling and easily overlooked, William has now become a friendly face to many and one who goes above and beyond to improve his community with his new skills and helpful nature.

It is such real-life stories that demonstrate how giving someone the opportunity to be part of something greater than themselves can significantly impact their lives and contribute to uplifting an entire community.