Antionette Venter (74) from the SAPS Victim Support Unit is the woman behind the project, which she simply calls Tannie A.
During lockdown she continued to give back to those in need and said the number of elderly people and households in need grew rapidly.
Antionette carried on making food deliveries to the elderly in these very uncertain times.
Challenges she faced
She had to take on the role of being a counsellor to those in need.
“It was draining me emotionally as I had to make some big decisions for families. Due to the lockdown, most of the counsellors I used to refer people to were not working and more and more people came to me with their problems, hoping for a possible solution. That alone was a very challenging responsibility for me,” she said.
A year of miracles
“The year 2020 was a difficult but wonderful year. If only everyone could see how people not only opened their hearts but also their wallets to those in need. The number of donations I received was just too good to be true. I was so amazed about how everyone just stood together and helped one another,” said Antionette.
According to her, everything was a gift from above.
“I will get a request for something and then I will think to myself how am I going to get this and then the next moment after word of mouth I end up having what was requested and more.”
She said she made it through the year with the grace of God.
“2020 definitely made me a stronger Christian, and what I saw during these difficult times were miracles. Really, I can’t even put it into words,” she explained.
Big changes
She has always had a passion for people, and she is living her life by helping others and making their lives better one day at a time.
Her daughter is now her right hand as she took over the responsibilities of a previous volunteer, Ralph Levy.
“Ralph moved, which made it very difficult for him to still offer his assistance when needed. So my daughter is now helping out, and she is really doing a great job. I think we make a great team.”
Lend a helping hand
People can donate any food, but she is, in particular, need of soya, rice, pasta and coffee.
“I want to ask those who want to help to buy the goods they want to donate rather than just giving money. If they want to give money, I can refer them to The Living Care Circle, which is an NPC which also offers their help to the elderly, homeless and abused. People can call them on 083 444 0608,” she said.
Antoinette thanked the community for their loyal support over the years.
Those interested in helping can contact her on 084 812 6715.
