Mother Soup was the ray of light for the Western Cape’s destitute during the early days of lockdown; since then, they have served over 5 million meals.
Cape Town, South Africa (11 October 2021) – Mother Soup is an initiative that was launched at the start of the South African lockdown. The Woodstock Brewery converted their space into a soup kitchen when it became impossible to use their equipment for its intended purpose, and so, Mother Soup was born.
Andre Viljoen, the owner of the Woodstock Brewery, realised that the large kettles used for brewing could be repurposed for making soup. They were then able to provide nutritious meals to the ever-growing ranks of Cape Town’s hungry.
The Mother Soup Project partnered with the Great Commission United (GCU), and in the many months since that fateful March 2020 day, they have provided an average of 7,000 litres of soup per day (the equivalent of 21,000 meals) which means they have reached more than 5 million meals in 18 months.
The meals are distributed to the cities homeless and destitute. According to Mother Soup, the recipes are designed by certified nutritionists and chefs to contain added protein and healthy fats. The soup is usually served with donated bread and other food items such as peanut butter when available and depending upon funding and donations.
The non-profit relies solely on donations and volunteers. Every cent raised goes towards providing meals for those in need.
The non-profit recently signed a lease on a new building, which will allow them to upscale their production. The facility is geared towards fresh food production and is better catered to a soup kitchen.
The Great Commission United (GCU) is helping to manage the fundraising efforts to support this new facility. GCU is seeking funding assistance with factory fit-out costs estimated to a total of R3-million and ongoing operational costs.
Operations will cost R300 000 per month and, in return, will provide an estimated 250 000 nutritious meals delivered hot to those who need it most.
“We need your support to continue our work in the Mother City. To get involved with this life-changing initiative, please contact adam@gcu.org.za.”
You can follow the Mother Soup Project on Facebook here.
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