Humanity foundation makes a birthday wish come true
For more information about the foundation or to become involved call 082 610 7593.
Tears, cheers and laughter echoed throughout Rasam Tandoori Indian Restaurant, Sheridan Centre, on February 2, as The Humanity Foundation gathered to show their appreciation to a man, dubbed a pillar of the Boksburg community.
In 2020, Cherrie Lurie’s life took an unthinkable turn when she lost her wife and children to Covid.
Overcome with grief the Benoni resident’s life spiralled out of control and she found herself living on the streets, doing everything in her power to feed her addiction.
A chance encounter with Clayton Viljoen, of Urban Ruins Projects, in Plantation saw Cherrie getting the support she needed to rebuild her life.
“It is difficult to put into words what Clayton did for me. It is easier to say that he saved my life,” she said with tears rolling down her face.
Cherrie’s life was once again turned upside down and her will tested, when she was diagnosed with terminal cancer.
The prognosis was severe with doctors giving her only six months to live.
On January 30, nine months following her diagnosis, she celebrated her birthday making only two wishes, to dine at an Indian restaurant and to honour Viljoen.
Hearing about her desire, The Humanity Foundation waved its wand and took it upon themselves to host a luncheon not only in honour of these individuals, but also showing their appreciation to those who contribute to the community driven organisation’s ongoing success.
Reflecting on its growing success over the past two years, one of the founding members Pierre Marneweck, said he is humbled by the those who selflessly step-up to assist those in need.
“We are surrounded by incredible NPOs who are going beyond the call of duty to extend a helping hand.
“It is difficult to highlight the work of one and not the other, but after hearing Cherrie’s story it was obvious that the first recipient of The Humanity Foundation’s Honourary Award should be Clayton,” he said.
“This man does not simply give hand-outs, he meets every beneficiary on a personal level, he listens to their plight and assists from a place of pure love.
“Beyond his own workings, he has further assisted us to establish Urban Humanity Food, a branch of service that secures and distribute food staples to 28 local vetted NPO’s in Boksburg and Benoni, on a monthly basis.
“These donations assist these organisations with their ongoing feeding schemes.”
Wrapping up the formalities, certificates of appreciation were also present to Woodlands International College and Ashton College Benoni for their ongoing support and donation drives in aid of the foundation.
Tony Quatro of QualiPak, Tayla Smit (Boksburg Advertiser) and Jani de Beer (Benoni City Times) were also amongst the certificate recipients.
Also Read: Urban Ruins Projects NPO and The Humanity Foundation celebrate women
