The wind thrashes plastic bags as it wraps itself tighter against hollow plastic containers.

Just before 15:00 on September 16, Farrarmere Gardens residents started making their way to the veld on Maalstroom Street, gathering for the weekly soup kitchen.

Sitting in front of a wooden cross on a makeshift bench they chat merrily and watch as little ones play on a nearby sand mound.

With a smudge of red lipstick, a little girl squeals as she tries to guess what’s on the menu.

It has been 18 months since Nelia du Plessis took the initiative, offering a lifeline to residents who felt forgotten by the wider Farrarmere community.

However, financial constraints now threaten to derail the progress made.

“Our work here started simply. We established a weekly soup kitchen, which provides healthy and balanced meals to 350 residents,” she said, fighting back tears.

“We pride ourselves not only on providing quality prepared meals but also quantity, serving enough to sustain each household for up to two days. This is, however, our last day until we can secure sponsorship and donations to continue our work.”

Nelia explained that a benefactor, who wishes to remain anonymous, has been preparing the meals with donated fresh vegetables, meat, and protein-rich products.

“A substantial donation enabled us to buy extra ingredients and gas for cooking,” she said, her voice breaking.

“Unfortunately, the funds have run dry, forcing the temporary closure of the soup kitchen until new support can be secured.”

She added that suspending the service has far-reaching effects and threatens to undo the community’s progress.

“Yes, it is about the food, but there are more intricate facets,” said Nelia.

“When we started reaching out to the Farrarmere Gardens community, we met individuals who, on top of being hungry, yearned for dignity. They steadily gained the courage to break free from the shackles of desperation, feeling worthy.

“Through soft skill training, we could assist many in drafting CVs and ultimately gaining employment.

“The weekly gatherings have fostered strong friendships and ignited a community spirit.”

Nelia fears that the closure of the soup kitchen may cause the community to regress.

“My heart is shattered into a million pieces. These individuals have become part of my family. They put their trust in me, and it feels like I am failing them,” she said, hugging a little boy a little tighter.

“Our needs are minimal, but the impact is far-reaching. I appeal to anyone willing to help us continue supporting these residents.”

Businesses and individuals who wish to assist may contact Nelia at 082 669 6532.

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