Every Saturday morning, just before 10:00, the pavement along Wooton Avenue, a stone’s throw from Sun1 Hotel in Western Extension, comes alive with activity as dozens of homeless and vulnerable residents gather in anticipation of a warm meal.

For more than a decade, this scene has played out without fail thanks to the dedication of Frederick Francis and the Benoni Old Boys Soup Kitchen.

When the Benoni City Times visited on May 30, the atmosphere was no different. Both sides of the pavement buzzed with conversation as patrons waited patiently, plates in hand.

The aroma of spices drifted through the air long before the food was served, guiding visitors to Francis’ modest operating base inside a small garage.

The space, decorated with newspaper clippings, football photographs and images of Mahatma Gandhi, is home to two large silver pots that every week make a world of difference to those gathered outside.

Born and bred in Actonville, Francis never imagined he would one day be feeding hundreds of people.

“I couldn’t cook to save my life, but all of a sudden I started cooking, learning and giving to the poor,” he said.

The roots of his service stretch back generations.

“My family always helped people. Travellers and strangers would stay at our house and get something to eat. I just didn’t know that one day I would continue doing it. When God calls you, you answer.”

For the past 13 years, Francis has answered that call every Saturday. The journey has brought both joy and heartbreak.

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“Sometimes it’s happy, sometimes it’s sad because these people have got nothing. Many sleep on the streets and some struggle with drugs, but it’s cold at night. We can’t judge them. We must help them.”

Beyond serving meals, Francis and his team distribute blankets, clothing, shoes, stationery and other essentials whenever donations become available.

The greatest reward, he says, comes after the meal.

“When they’ve eaten and they’re smiling, your whole body feels light. It’s God’s work.”

He credits the success of the initiative to the support of Benoni Old Boys, Expats FC, Akhalwaya Spice Bar, Lester Moodley, ward councillor Imtiaaz Loonat and numerous community members who contribute monthly.

Francis recalls several people whose lives changed after receiving support and prayers through the soup kitchen, including men who found employment and rebuilt their lives.

Yet there is sadness, too.

“Some of the people we feed become our family. We’ve lost seven people in three months. When they pass away, we hold a moment of silence for them.”

To ensure the project continues, Francis encourages residents to donate non-perishable food items such as baked beans and rice.

“There’s nothing to be scared to give,” he said. “When we have, we share.”

To help, you can reach out to Francis on 074 754 7312 or Moodley on 082 468 0417.

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