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Bikers spread Diwali cheer with food hampers in Actonville

The initiative formed part of the National Diwali Run (NDR), a community outreach programme led by several biking clubs from Gauteng, Durban and other cities.

The sound of roaring engines filled the streets of Actonville on November 1, as scores of bikers, accompanied by a bakkie loaded with food parcels, made their way to the Shree Arulmigu Arthanareeswarar Kovil Temple to donate 40 food hampers to locals.

The initiative was part of the National Diwali Run (NDR), a community outreach programme led by several biking clubs from Gauteng, Durban, and other cities.

The annual programme aims to bring joy and relief to underprivileged communities during Diwali by providing essential goods and support.

Members of the community ticked off their names before receiving their food hampers from the Shree Arulmigu Arthanareeswarar Kovil Temple on November 1, thanks to the bikers.
Brothers Grimm member Malcolm Govender presents a food parcel to Kumarie Lutchman of Actonville.

The hampers contained staple food items, including oil, sugar, biscuits, jam, samp, Knorrox cubes, and other necessities.

Participating clubs from the East Rand included Muruga’s SMC, Brothers Grimm, Street Kings MC, Family That Rides (FTR), Comrades MC, Soul Riders, Charity Riders, and eight other clubs.

According to Addis Pursad, vice-president of Muruga’s SMC, the needs observed in communities inspired the donation drive.

“We reach out to everyone in need, regardless of their religion, in areas such as Benoni, Villa Liza, and Reiger Park. This is an annual initiative, and our way of supporting families struggling at this time of the year,” said Pursad.

Holding the National Diwali Run (NDR) banner is Addis Pursad, vice-president of Muruga’s SMC.
Bikers from Muruga’s SMC, Brothers Grimm, Street Kings MC, Family That Rides (FTR), Comrades MC, Soul Riders, Charity Riders, and eight other clubs from the East Rand are with the food parcels for Actonville residents.

He added that various companies and individuals donated the food in the parcels.

Pursad explained that community coordinators, who are familiar with the challenges of residents, compiled a list of beneficiaries.

Coordinator Selyie Govindasamy said the selection process includes a thorough needs assessment to ensure transparency and fairness.

“We do a door-to-door survey and ask questions such as how many pensioners live in the home, how many adults are working, and whether they receive Sassa grants. This helps us determine who genuinely needs assistance,” she said.

 

Govindasamy added that the support extends beyond food parcels.

“Besides giving food, we help residents with their CVs so they can find employment, or join our volunteer group to stay active and involved in their community.”

One beneficiary, Kumarie Lutchman, expressed gratitude for the gesture, saying the hampers would bring relief.

Also Read: WATCH: Bikers donate to Sonop community

Also Read: Hell Razor MCC donates food and other supplies to war veterans

   

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Ntombikayise Sibeko

Ntombikayise Letlepo is the news editor of Benoni City Times and a passionate storyteller at heart. She joined Caxton Local Newspapers in 2015 and previously served as a senior journalist at the Boksburg Advertiser. Ntombikayise is an all-rounder when it comes to news content, covering everything from hard news to human-interest stories.

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