Freezing temperatures across the East Rand are driving up demand at a soup kitchen in Boksburg.

The Aruka Foundation, formerly known as New Beginnings, which started operating in 2009, feeds about 1 000 people every week, including homeless men, women and children from areas such as Germiston, Angelo and the Ramaphosa informal settlements.

The centre, which has become a place of hope for many struggling residents, serves warm meals from Monday to Friday, 08:00 to 09:30.

Khulekani Ndlovu, the feeding scheme coordinator, said some beneficiaries often arrive later because they travel long distances on foot to access a meal.

According to Ndlovu, winter remains one of the most difficult periods for people living on the streets, many of whom rely on the soup kitchen as their only reliable source of food.

“Winter is always challenging for the homeless in the city,” said Ndlovu.

“The cold weather places additional pressure on vulnerable residents, especially those sleeping on the streets without proper shelter, warm clothing or regular meals.

“Many people who visit the centre often go for days without eating and depend entirely on the feeding scheme to survive. This is their only meal. Earlier, one of the men took extra food, saying it was for supper,” he said.

“It is very important for these people because sometimes they do not eat for over two days, but fortunately, we are here from Monday to Friday,” he said.

According to Ndlovu, they have witnessed a growing number of people seeking assistance over the years as unemployment, poverty and homelessness continue to affect many communities across the East Rand.

For some beneficiaries, the soup kitchen offers more than just a plate of food. It also provides a sense of dignity, comfort and support during difficult times.

Despite helping almost a thousand vulnerable residents every week, the organisation continues to operate without formal sponsorship or government funding.

“We sustain ourselves through our leadership, Pastor Jean Paul Goris of New Beginnings. We do not have sponsors.”

He said keeping the soup kitchen running during winter is critical because the number of people seeking assistance often increases during colder months.

Preparing meals for such a large number of people every week comes with major challenges, particularly when food supplies begin to run low.

Donations from community members and businesses play an important role in ensuring the feeding scheme continues to operate and reaches those who need help the most.

The organisation is now appealing to community members, local businesses and potential donors to assist with food supplies and other necessities to ensure the feeding scheme can continue operating throughout winter.

“Anything will help. We need maize meal, soup, vegetables, potatoes, salt – anything will go a long way.

“As I said, we do not get funding, not even from the government, so anything would really be appreciated,” he said.

They would also appreciate donations of any containers to dish food into for the recipients.

Residents who would like to donate or assist the feeding scheme can contact Pastor Jean Paul Goris on 071 883 7142 or email Jeanpaul@arukafoundation.co.za

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