The Westering Methodist Church in Port Elizabeth identified a community in need, they started handing out sandwiches but it grew into something amazing!
Port Elizabeth, South Africa (19 June 2020) – What started as a “toebroodjie” (sandwich) operation, has become a full-blown food parcel collaboration in PE. The Westering Methodist Church heard about the food drive being run by Lezelle and Celieze. They joined and soon after it grew.
“These ladies have developed network to be reckoned with… a drop-off and collection point of food donations at a HOME in various residential suburbs – Newton Park, Summestrand, Walmer, Walmer Heights, Mount Pleasant, Broadwood, Lorraine, Sherwood, Sunridge Park, Bridgemead, Westering. “
Through the network, they have been able to feed 600 people living in 160 shacks in an informal settlement in Booysens Park. The community outreach has changed so many lives.
When they started collecting food items, they were stressed that they wouldn’t be able to help each family. They packed up what they had and it came to 101 food parcels. They were short and due to deliver the next day. The team contacted their congregation and by the next day, they had enough to feed the community.
It is these small victories that will change the world. One act of kindness at a time. The church has now continued their food drives with a focus on helping school children and schools in need. The local schools reached out and they are helping fulfil the requests this week.
“It all started with Saturday “toebroodjies” by some running friends. However, it has now united families from numerous residential suburbs and different faith communities, while feeding those in need during this very difficult time.
Each week a different area has been identified or earmarked for hunger relief.
Deliveries throughout June will continue in conjunction with schools as they identify learners that are in dire need of family food parcels.
The church facilitates the weekly packing and delivery of donations, but it is indeed a community-driven initiative with an incredible heart to ease the plight in our area.” – Corinne Calder